Be on look out for unsolicited traders

Police received reports the workers, who were using a blue and grey van with an open back, carried out driveway tarmacing for an older man who was not satisfied with the job or price paid.

He has no redress with the workers as they were unsolicited callers who left no contact details.

Householders should be aware that allowing unsolicited work to be carried out brings with it the risk of paying over the over the odds for potentially substandard work.

Police advise that unsolicited workmen will offer to tarmac drives, clean gutters or paint outbuildings and frequently elderly or vulnerable people may find themselves out of pocket if a dispute arises over the cost.

A spokesman said: "Our advice is that if you need work done about your home you should contact established traders who have a reputation to protect and will still be around if anything goes wrong.

"Do not allow anyone access to your home or property unless you are sure of who they are and where they can be contacted in future. If you feel under pressure, close the door to any callers and report the matter to police.

"Some of these callers can have 'the gift of the gab' and may seem persuasive. Do not be taken in by glib promises."

Police say they intend to carry out further enquiries into the incident at Dollingstown.

Anyone with information or who saw the 'traders' is asked to contact police on 0845 600 8000. Alternatively, information about crime can be passed to the Crimestoppers charity anonymously by contacting 0800 555 111.