Rogue traders face crackdown

COWBOY builders who prey on the elderly and vulnerable are being targeted in a three-day crackdown which starts today.

Greater Manchester Police is joining forces with trading standards officers to target rogue traders.

Police say they often use illegal, untrained or unqualified labour and are also likely to steal from their victims.

Detective Chief Inspector Dean Fraser said: “Rogue traders give honest, professional workers a bad name and are a menace to society.

“They prey on the vulnerable, especially older people and can systematically rob them of their hard-earned life savings. We are committed to bringing these callous thieves to justice.”

Residents are urged not to deal with cold callers.

Ian O’ Donnell, from Trading Standards, added: “Buying on impulse from cold callers could lead to you being targeted by other cold callers who get more and more ruthless in their approach.”

To report rogue traders and bogus callers call the police on 0161-872 50 50 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.