POLICE in West Somerset have issued a warning for elderly residents to beware rogue traders calling on them over the Easter season.

It follows an incident which occurred in the South Park area of Minehead, where a homeowner was approached by two men offering to cut down some overhanging branches on their property.

The men told the elderly resident the work was necessary or they would be in trouble with the local council.

The pair agreed to carry out the tree works for £350 but then spent only about 10 minutes working in the garden before they packed up and asked for their money.

The homeowner signed a blank cheque and asked the men to fill in the rest.

The incident happened at about 5.30 pm on Tuesday, April 15.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “Fortunately, the cheque has not been banked.

“We want to remind all residents to be wary of any unexpected callers offering to do work.

“Typically, rogue traders try and use people’s fear of prosecution or worry about a problem causing more damage to get residents to agree to over-priced or unnecessary work, which is often of a poor quality.

“Remember, genuine callers expect you to check their identification before opening the door, would never try to rush you by claiming there is an emergency, and will happily make an appointment to come back when you can have a relative or friend with you.”

The spokesperson said people should always use a door chain when they receive any unexpected callers.

They said: “If you have any information about this incident, especially CCTV images, please call us on 101, giving reference number 5225107987 and ask that the call is tagged as ‘Neighbourhood Watch’.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”