OFFICERS investigating a rogue trader incident in Over Wallop are urging members of the public to look out for their elderly and vulnerable neighbours.

The incident occurred between 12pm and 1pm on Thursday, 19 June at a home in Salisbury Lane.

Two men approached the home of an 89-year-old man and persuaded him to pay for unnecessary gardening work.

They initially asked for £550 to cut his garden hedge and suggested he visited his bank to withdraw the money.

The men were pushy and one of them began to cut the hedge without permission. The victim then paid them £150 but they left having carried out minimal work.

The first man is described as white, about 30-years-old, 5ft 8 tall, of medium build with untidy short brown hair.

The second suspect is described as a white man, about 30-years-old, of stout build, with short brown hair and clean shaven.

Pc Andrew White, from Andover police station, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who may have seen these men in the area.

“It is believed they were travelling in a Ford Transit dropsied van and may have approached other residents.

“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 and pay by cheque or credit card

Keep an eye out for any elderly relatives or neighbours.”

If you have any concerns about rogue traders, contact your local Safer Neighbourhoods team by calling 101.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact Pc White at Andover police station on 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.