Published: Thursday, 8th May, 2008 12:00
OAPS ARE SCAMMED
By Amanda Keenan
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BOGUS workmen are targeting Barrhead pensioners by carrying out unnecessary repairs and scamming them out of hundreds of pounds.
Now police and Trading Standards are reminding elderly residents to be vigilant after two pensioners were targeted and overcharged for repairs.
The latest incident saw a workman convince an elderly woman that her home in Cullin Way required urgent repairs and after asking for payment up-front he stole her purse.
And in another incident at Aursbridge Crescent a bogus workman carried out unnecessary repairs to guttering at a pensioners home.
When challenged the twisted workman demanded £650 from the frail OAP and when he refused to dish out the money the workman tore down the guttering and drove off.
Now Trading Standards are warning residents to ring and report doorstep callers offering to carry out sub standard work at over inflated prices.
Paul Holland, Senior Trading Standards Officer said “We deal with complaints from residents, particularly the elderly, who have fallen victim to fraudulent workmen. We urge residents to keep an eye out for elderly neighbours and report suspicious callers immediately.”
“We would ask that people don’t employ workmen who chap your door or deliver leaflets unless you check their trading background.
“And don’t pay if you are unhappy with the workmanship, Trading Standards may be able to put you in touch with an independent expert to examine the job.
A spokesperson for Barrhead police said: “We would ask anyone who saw a man acting suspiciously in Cullin Way over the last week to contact us.
The workman at Aursbrige Crescent is described as aged 43 to 47, 5’7, heavy build, local accent and wearing blue jeans and white trainers.
“We would ask elderly residents to be aware of cold callers and not to agree to any type of repair work being carried out.
If anyone has been targeted by a bogus workmen matching this description contact Barrhead Police immediately on 0141 532 6200.
If you suspect a fraudulent workmen is operating in East Renfrewshire note the registration number of the van and any other details and Ring and Report on 0800 0130076.
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