Police are urging residents to be vigilant after a number of reports of possible rogue traders in west Dorset.

Dorset Police are asking residents who have had a leaflet through the door offering services to ask questions before taking them up on the offer.

A spokesman for Dorset Police Rural Crime Team said: "Dorset Police have received a number of reports of possible rogue traders in the west Dorset area. These individuals are thought to target vulnerable individuals, complete services and then demand inflated prices for their services.

"The rural crime team work in partnership with various agencies, including Trading Standards. We often find prolific offenders will be of notice to all of us. Is that rogue trader likely to legitimately dispose of that garden waste or is that rubble going to find its way onto your field?

"If you are having work done and waste is being taken away ask where it is going? Ask for a waste transfer note.

"Remember to call 999 for a crime in progress (e.g flytipping in progress). Call 101 for any non emergencies (e.g suspicious vehicle which has just been seen and may be a rogue trader)."

For contact information for trading standards, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/contact/trading-standards.aspx

For information about how to report flytipping, visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/bins-recycling-and-litter/reducing-and-reusing/current-campaigns-and-offers/tip-off.aspx