RESIDENTS in the Tivyside area are being warned to be on their guard against so-called ‘Hawkers’ or ‘Nottingham Knockers’ after reports of door-to-door salesmen operating in the Cardigan and St Dogmaels area.

These groups knock at doors and claim to be ex-convicts attempting to mend their ways, before trying to sell the householder everyday household products at inflated prices.

Dyfed-Powys Police are advising residents to consider carefully before buying products from door-to-door sales people and not to succumb to pressure selling tactics.

July has been designated as Scams Awareness Month with the aim to raise public awareness of scams, share stories and find out how people can protect themselves and others from these crimes.

Ceredigion County Council is keen to highlight this ever-increasing concern which can strike anyone at any time. The National Trading Standards Scams (NTSS) Team estimates that the detriment to UK consumers as a result of these scams is between £5 and £10bn a year.

Cabinet member for lifestyle services, Cllr Rhodri Evans said: “Scams Awareness Month is a great way of highlighting this serious issue as scams can affect us all.

“Due to the ever increasing threat of scams from numerous sources such as cold callers, the internet, through the post and even on your doorstep, it’s vitally important to raise awareness to the residents of Ceredigion to be both apprehensive and aware of these scams.”

PCSO Matt Kieboom, of Cardigan Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “It’s incredibly professional and these people are part of organised teams who practice their patter and script.

“They gain people’s confidence and it is important for people to be aware of what is going on and be alert to all the dangers.”

Anyone who is concerned about the behaviour or selling tactics of door to door sales people is advised to contact Dyfed-Powys Police on 101 or their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.

For more information, go to http://www.tradingstandardswales.org.uk/help/doorstepcrime.cfm