On the day of the Prime Minister's visit to Cornwall to promote apprenticeships, Penzance Police have issued warning about cold calling 'rogue traders'.

As Rishi Sunak talked to GWR apprentices at Long Rock, Penzance, the town's police force said it had seen an uptick in rogue traders cold calling people in the area.

Posting on their Facebook page, Penzance Police warned people to be on their guard about people using deceptive tactics.

"We have had several reports recently of rogue traders cold calling people in the area," they said. "Rogue traders are skilled in manipulating circumstances and often use deceptive tactics to charge high prices for a poor standard of work.

"Recently, we have been finding that rogue traders offering gardening services have been targeting local communities, however please remain vigilant of rogue traders offering other poor quality services including building services, plumbing, roofing and cleaning."

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The police offer tips to avoid being caught out by a rogue trader:

  • Don’t agree to work offered by unsolicited doorstep callers
  •  Don’t be rushed into making a decision there and then, always go away and do your own research
  • Don’t pay cash, agree to be taken to the bank or transfer money electronically before any work has taken place

✔ Do take your time to decide which company you’d like to use, and get written quotes from three different, reputable businesses

✔ Do ask to see evidence of professional qualifications and public liability insurance

✔ Do make sure you have full contact details for the tradesperson

✔ Do ask trusted friends and family for recommended tradespeople

"If you experience any issues with persistent cold callers, or you unfortunately become a victim of a rogue trader, contact Trading Standards. If you notice anything suspicious call 101 or if you feel like you are in immediate please dial 999," say police.