Cops’ warning about suspicious doorstep callers

Police issue advice to encourage Hathersage residents to remain vigilant around doorstep callers following a suspicious incident in the area.
Alleged assault in RamseyAlleged assault in Ramsey
Alleged assault in Ramsey

Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood team were alerted by a resident at 2.45pm on Tuesday, April 29 about a man offering goods for sale on Chequers Inn in Froggatt Edge, Calver.

The offender was stopped by police and he was found to be trading without a pedlar’s certificate. He has been strongly advised about the importance of trading with the correct documentation.

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PCSO Anthony Boswell from the Hathersage and Tideswell Policing Team said: “We are encouraging residents to continue to be cautious and to report any suspicious activity to police to help to prevent a crime from happening.

“We are advising people to keep front and back doors locked when at home, use a chain when opening the door and if someone calls at your door unexpectedly, always make sure that you ask for identification.”

Officers are advising residents to follow some simple safety tips when dealing with doorstep callers, including asking to see the identity card of the caller, and if they are selling goods, to ask for their pedlar’s certificate.

They should take the ID card or certificate, close the door and examine it from inside, and to call the organisation they work for using a number from the telephone directory or a utility bill if they are unsure.

Other advice includes:

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Never invite a stranger into your home; if they ask to use the toilet, for a drink or to make a call then direct them to the nearest public facilities.

Question whether you really need the goods or services they are offering and don’t be obliged to buy or sign up to anything on the spot. You may get a better deal if you shop around or get alternative quotes.

Remember that genuine callers will not mind while you make these checks.

Keep an eye out for your neighbours and report any suspicious activity to police by noting down any information you have including descriptions of anyone in the area and the details of any vehicles.

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To contact Derbyshire police call the non-emergency number on 100, except in an emergency when the number is always 999.

For further advice and information visit the Derbyshire police website: www.derbyshire.police.uk or Derbyshire County Council website: www.derbyshire.gov.uk.

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