Residents warned of rogue traders operating in Sheffield

South Yorkshire Police are warning residents in Sheffield to beware of rogue traders after three bogus tradesman conned an elderly lady out of hundreds of pounds.

Last Friday (1 May), the three men 'cold called' the 79-year-old victim on her doorstep in Stocksbridge and offered to do some gardening work for her.

After initially agreeing a price, the men then became became intimidating and aggressive, demanding an additional £400 for machinery and materials.

The victim handed over all the cash in her purse, totalling more than £500.

South Yorkshire Police have given 7 tips to protect yourself against rogue traders:

• Trust no-one who cold calls you

• Never send or give money to anyone you don't know or trust

• Check people are who they say they are.

• Do not hand over money or sign anything until you have checked the credentials of the company or individual

• Do not agree to offers or deals immediately. Make decisions in your own time

• Insist on time to obtain independent advice before making a decision

• If in doubt, phone a relative or a friend