Police are warning of rogue traders operating in the Dawlish and Teignmouth area.

Officers say there have been reports of cold callers visiting people's homes and offering to carry out work on their homes or gardens.

A spokesman for Teignmouth and Dawlish Police said: "A rogue trader will often offer to do work for you, but then overcharge you for poor or incomplete work.

"They can be very intimidating and can charge hundreds of pounds for a simple tree cut.

"Please do not accept any work offered by a cold caller - look for a certified trader.

"If the cold caller becomes intimidating or aggressive please all the police, giving as much information as possible, for example, vehicle, clothing, person's description, along with any cards or numbers used."

The police's advice on thwarting bogus callers

Residents who want to avoid the callers are advised to keep doors and windows locked, and not admit any strangers who haven't made an appointment to visit.

Anyone wanting to check a caller's identity is advised to ask for their ID card, but to look up the phone number of the organisation they claim to represent, rather than phoning a number on the card.

Police say people should also be aware that criminals sometimes work in pairs, with one person calling at the front door while an accomplice sneaks in through a window or door at the back.

Door stickers with the words 'No Cold Callers' are available from the police. Anyone who would like one is asked to visit Teignmouth and Dawlish Police's Facebook page and use the button on the page to send them an email, giving their name and full postal address, and also giving their phone number if they want to speak to an officer..