Rogue Traders Warning In Wareham

27 April 2011, 10:14 | Updated: 27 April 2011, 10:18

Officers in Weymouth are warning the public to be on their guard against rogue traders – after an elderly man paid builders for work that was not carried out.

On Tuesday, 19 April 2011, an elderly man was told by builders that he needed work done on the roof of his home in Cedar Drive, in the Preston area of Weymouth.

Police Constable Andy Dickinson, of Weymouth police, said: “Two white men, believed to be in their mid twenties, persuaded the victim to part with a substantial amount of money to have some roof tiles replaced and to have some ancillary work done on the roof itself.

“The offenders did not purchase any materials for the victim’s property, and they carried out no work.

“I understand that the two men responsible for tricking this victim into parting with money have carried out work at other properties in the area and have approached other residents by offering to do work for them too.

“My enquiries show that a third male, who is also white and aged between 45 and 50 years old, may have been involved in this scam.

“A vehicle that I believe has been used by these individuals is described as a builder’s style pick up truck which is a light colour and has ladders on the back.”

If anyone believes they have been approached by these men, or if anyone has also fallen victim to them, they should contact Dorset Police in confidence on 01305 22 22 22.

Police Constable Dickinson continued: “I would encourage residents to be vigilant to these types of incidents, where offenders may try and persuade you to part with cash for jobs which may or may not need doing.

“These types of fraudsters often target older members of our community, so I’d encourage friends, family and neighbours of elderly people to be mindful of this.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01305 22 22 22 quoting incident number 19:0393. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.