ROGUE traders are cold calling in part of Hampshire, trading standards officers have warned.

They are targeting the Barton-on-Sea area of the New Forest offering to clean driveways.

Hampshire County Council trading standards is advising residents not to agree to work as a result of a cold call or leaflet drop.

Traders are required by law to provide consumers with a Notice of Right to Cancel, which gives consumers a seven day cooling-off period. Work should not commence until this period has ended, unless written agreement is obtained from that consumer beforehand.

Consumers should obtain at least three written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire’s Buy With Confidence scheme or a recognised trade association.

Members of the Buy With Confidence scheme are fully audited to ensure their trading practices are legal, honest and fair. All members have been checked for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws.

Ring 01962 833620 or log on to buywithconfidence.gov.uk for details.

Anyone with information about traders who are cold calling or requires any advice on doorstep crime should contact Hampshire County Council's Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 during office hours when specially trained officers are on hand to provide advice.

If help is needed outside these hours contact Hampshire Police on their non-urgent number 101.