Police warn of rogue traders targeting homes in Preston

Households in Preston are being warned that rogue traders are targeting homes in the Frenchwood and Avenham areas of the city.
By Matthew Calderbank
Published 25th Sep 2020, 11:39 BST
Updated 25th Sep 2020, 11:40 BST
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Police are urging residents to remain vigilant after two men with Irish accents failed to carry out work that they had been paid for earlier this week.

Officers said the pair are offering gardening and tree removal services, but have repeatedly failed to complete work after being handed cash payments up front.

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A police spokesman said: "Residents in the Avenham and Frenchwood area of Preston, please be aware there have been recent incidents whereby residents have been targeted by two males with strong Irish accents, who are offering gardening and removal services.

Homes in the Frenchwood and Avenham areas of Preston have been targeted by rogue traders, say policeHomes in the Frenchwood and Avenham areas of Preston have been targeted by rogue traders, say police
Homes in the Frenchwood and Avenham areas of Preston have been targeted by rogue traders, say police

"In these instances, the residents have paid prior to the work being done, and the males have then left the area."

The force said anyone in need of these services should contact 'Safer Trader' on 0303 333 1111 to arrange for a legitimate business to undertake the work.

For advice on reporting a trader, you can call Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506.

For anything suspicious in your area, you can call police on 101.