North Dorset Police is warning about the dangers of cold callers after a man was targeted by unscrupulous workers.

The elderly man was asked for cash in hand for a gardening job that was ‘likely not worth the value of the work’. Fortunately, police intervened to prevent the financial loss and inform local trading standards.

Police ensured his family and bank were alerted and subsequently returned to the village in order to check up on the individual and issued advice to other residents.

The incident took place in a Wiltshire village but an officer from North Dorset Police was involved in the response and now the force is sharing some valuable advice.

A spokesperson said: “Don't accept work from cold callers (and) ensure you have a pre-work contract with a 14 day cooling off period.

“Don't pay cash and certainly don't get persuaded to be taken to the nearest bank. If you have concerns or suspicions, call the police / trading standards.”