Advice on how to avoid falling victim to bogus carpet salesmen has been issued by Epping Forest crime reduction officer Tony Ellis.
He spoke out after reports that a number elderly and vulnerable residents in the Ongar and North Weald area have recently been cheated out of large sums of money by men calling at their homes and offering to fit new carpets at a low cost.
Mr Ellis said: "They use a story like they have been working locally and have a piece of carpet left over from a job which would fit the victim's house.
"They then fit a tatty piece of carpet worth a few pounds and charge up to £300 for the service."
Despite the nature of the con, police are warning that it is difficult to prosecute as the victim has usually agreed to the service.
He added: "Once again, the answer is the same - dont buy anything from cold callers."
Anyone wanting further advice on crime prevention or home security is asked to call Mr Ellis at Epping police station on 01992 561212, extension 28145.
Published Thursday, January 9, 2003
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