A SURGE in doorstep selling has led to a warning from Bromley Council for residents to take extra care.

Con-artists knocking on doors offering goods or services are increasingly common. The council's trading standards team is calling for senior citizens especially to be on guard, following a recent incident where an elderly man was about to fork out around £2,000 for work on his roof which was not necessary.

Consumer protection inspector Matt Smith said: "This time we managed to prevent this person from losing a large chunk of his savings.

"I would appeal to everyone, particularly elderly residents, not to agree to have work done on their homes without getting a second opinion."

He reminded people to check for identification and to make sure older relatives are aware of the need to do so.

"The elderly have been stopped in the high street and conned in a similar way," he added.

Residents should not to let a caller in if they are suspicious and should not make snap decisions. They should not be alarmed by claims work needs to be done urgently and should get a second opinion.

Information or complaints about a doorstep trader can be made on 020 8313 4800.

December 10, 2001 15:42