We’re not ones for spreading fear amongst a community, but having just seen this press release from the fuzz, we thought it best to inform you about potential some dodgy cold callers doing the rounds in Ventnor and Newport. Ed
Police on the Isle of Wight are offering advice to homeowners after receiving reports of a suspicious salesman cold-calling at homes across the Island.
At around 4pm on Wednesday, April 9, a man called at an address on Chapel Close in Newport claiming to be a charity worker.
He let himself into the house without the permission of the elderly woman living there and pressured her into buying two dish cloths, a duster and a wind-up emergency light for £39.80. He left without providing a receipt.
Other householders in Chapel Close were also approached but they refused to buy the goods.
The man is described as:
* Between 30 and 35-years-old
* 5ft 8ins tall
* Stocky build
* Tanned skin
* Wearing a baseball cap, dark anorak and dark trousers
It is thought he may also be working alongside another man or child.
There have also been reports of a man fitting that description cold-calling at homes in Ventnor.
Isle of Wight Council Trading Standards Officers are also investigating reports of a man selling similar items for £50 at a sheltered housing block in Ryde.
Police Constable Adam Gamble from Newport police station said: “The elderly woman in Chapel Close clearly did not want to buy these products.
“I am concerned that this salesman is specifically targeting some of the most elderly and vulnerable people in our community.
“I would urge anyone with information, or who’s spotted a man fitting this description to contact me at Newport police station so we can trace the suspect.
As part of Hampshire Constabulary’s Safer Homes Campaign, officers are also offering advice about how to deal with this sort of incident.
Many cold callers are genuine, but if you do have suspicions there are some simple steps you can take:
“¢ Stop – are you expecting anyone to call on you? Do you know the person at the door? Don’t be misled by what appear to be genuine reasons for calling on you.
“¢ Check – A genuine caller will carry identification and will be happy to wait outside while you check it. Remember to source your own number for the company they are claiming to be from, don’t accept a number from the caller.
“¢ Chain – fit a door chain or spy hole so that you can speak to callers or check who they are without opening the door fully.
If you turn anyone away from your home because they could not provide you with a genuine reason for being there, or you are suspicious of callers in your area, contact the police.
Anyone with information about this or similar incidents on the Isle of Wight is asked to contact PC Gamble at Newport police station on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
If you have concerns about trades people operating on the Island, please contact Isle of Wight Council Trading Standards on 01983 823370.
