Police warning after resident nearly loses £2,500 to rogue traders operating in New Milton

POLICE are warning residents about rogue traders offering roofing and driveway repair services in New Milton after one local was nearly fleeced out of £2,500.

The offenders have reportedly been driving around the area in a white van with writing on the side, detailing the work they carry out.

A victim was said to have been on the verge of parting with the £2,500, but was able to cancel this payment before any of it was lost.

Sharing the warning online, local officers said: “The purpose of this post is not to alarm you, but to simply make you aware of the recent incident and what to be looking out for.”

People are urged to read the Office of Fair Trading’s top 10 tips on how to deal with doorstep sellers, shared on Action Fraud’s website at orlo.uk/gQ2LU

This includes never being pressured to agree to any work on the spot, and always asking for ID cards and checking details through official channels.

Highlighted by police as particularly important, tip seven is to always speak to a trusted relative, friend or carer before making any decisions or handing over any money.

The police post added: “If you have elderly family members or friends, who possibly won't see this post, please go through the advice with them when you next speak to them.”

Anyone with information about the recent rogue traders incident should contact officers online at hampshire.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting reference 44240422000.

People are also urged to get in touch at the earliest opportunity if they witness anything similar where they live, or any other suspicious activity.