Bogus callers, no cold calling zones

Consumer champion and presenter of the television programme Rogue Traders, Matt Allwright, has joined Bedfordshire County Council Trading Standards Service and Bedfordshire Police to launch a new campaign to rid the area of 'Bogus Callers'

Under the new scheme, called "Bogus? Phone Us", three special constables have been seconded to Bedfordshire Trading Standards where they provide a rapid response team to intercept bogus callers reported to a Hotline Number 08454 04 05 06.

This scheme adds to the protection given to householders by 'No Cold Calling Zones', like those recently established in Turvey, Roxton and Sandy. Another three 'No Cold Calling Zones' have also been proposed for Harlington, Flitwick and Wootton.

Already the rapid response team has intercepted bogus builders from London who have tried to deceive residents into agreeing to unnecessary and expensive repairs. The officers' intervention have saved residents 850 and 750 respectively and the rogue traders are now facing deception charges.

The "Bogus? Phone Us" campaign will prevent incidents such as a case in Stotfold earlier this year, where an elderly resident paid out over 40,000 to rogue builders. Over a period of 9 months a group of 'tradesman' went back to the victim's house again and again to carry out minor repairs, persuading him to part with sums ranging from 1,500 to 13,000.

Bogus? Phone Us" is all about residents being vigilant and looking out for each other. It's not just a question of being firm and turning away cold callers. We need to know immediately so that we can catch up with them before they strike again."

Anyone with concerns about a doorstep caller should call the Hotline. To find out more about setting up a No Cold calling Zone, call Trading Standards on 01234 228897.