POLICE are urging Basingstoke residents to be aware of rogue traders after an elderly man was tricked out of money in Whitchurch.
The78 year-old man was encouraged by a workman to have his driveway resurfaced at the end of November.
The work was poor quality and left unfinished but the workman insisted on being paid in cash and waited while the victim drove to his bank to withdraw the money.
Detective Constable Richard Chegwidden from Basingstoke police station said: “Please remember to ask anyone who knocks on your door for identification and if you are thinking about having any work done follow these tips – ask friends or relatives to recommend tradesmen, ask for a written quote, shop around before making a decision, don’t pay upfront, pay by cheque or credit card and keep an eye out for any elderly relatives or neighbours.”
If you have any concerns about rogue traders, please contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods team by calling 101.
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