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Warning given to steer clear of cowboys
PARTS of Kent with many elderly and vulnerable people are a prime target for rogue traders who may use doorstep bully tactics.
A grave warning has been issued by two leading guardian bodies of public safety following the conviction of cowboy builder Tommy Smith earlier this month.
Smith put elderly Birchington people at risk of potentially-deadly carbon monoxide poisoning after plying for trade in the street and carrying out sub-standard work.
He now faces financial penalties of 26,000 in fines and costs.
After the court case, Ian Treacher, assistant head of Kent Trading Standards, said: "Dealing effectively with this type of cold-calling doorstep crime is and continues to be our prime objective in Kent County Council's Trading Standards.
"Trading Standards work hard to get the message across to the public about being very careful with those who may try to persuade or trick people into work and to hand over money.
"This case came to our attention through the co-operation of our partners Kent Police and Neighbourhood Watch.
"This type of case can have devastating effects on the victims, especially as they are often elderly or vulnerable.
"It is a particular problem in areas with large pockets of such people.
"Our advice is not to get bullied into having work done, even if it may seem that the matter is urgent. Always try to seek additional quotes."
About 200 calls relating to this type of rogue trading were received annually by KTS officers.
Sent: 15/08/2008
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