RESIDENTS are being warned not to fall for rogue traders operating in Warrington.

Cheshire Police says it has received numerous reports of workers going door-to-door offering maintenance work at homes.

However, they are leaving without finishing the work and after demanding extortionate sums of money.

Officers are urging residents to report any suspicious activity to the police.

The force’s Warrington Town Centre Police team said: “We have had reports of workmen knocking on doors asking to do work on your home such as gutters, roofing and garden maintenance.

“Several of these jobs have not been completed, and the so-called workmen are then asking for alarming amounts of money to finish jobs and then not returning.

“If you need any work doing in your homes, please use a recommended trader wherever possible

“Always try and get several quotes for a job and never pay upfront without work being completed.

“The traders will normally target vulnerable or elderly residents, so look out for your neighbours, and if you see anything that looks suspicious, please call 101 and report it.

“Any vehicle registrations and descriptions are always helpful.

“We know that we have a lot of legitimate people carrying out work in the area, however sadly, these people ruin it for them.”