Residents have been advised to not engage with peddlers who may come to their doorsteps after a vulnerable person was targeted.

This warning comes from the Trading Standards, following reports in Cherwell district like Middle Barton, Banbury, and Deddington areas.

Individuals known as 'Nottingham door knockers' have been called out for their behaviour; they've been linked to aggressiveness, intimidation, and potential property intrusion.

As reported on the Cherwell District Council Community Safety Team's Facebook page, these individuals sell goods at high prices often whilst they are of substandard quality.

They further employ manipulative tactics like initiating conversations to distract homeowners while a collaborator goes around the rear.

There's concern that these peddlers not only overcharge but may secretly grade properties to target vulnerable and elderly residents.

The strategy - according to Trading Standards - involves noting the condition of banknotes handed to them, using this to judge a home's likelihood of holding more money.

Lists of 'promising' addresses are then allegedly sold, potentially leading to repeat victimisation by rogue traders offering bogus services like roofing, guttering, and block paving.

Residents are urged to only engage with sellers possessing a police-issued Peddler's license, not a laminated card.

More information on Peddler's licenses is available at the UK Government's website, and individuals are reminded to keep side gates and back doors secure if answering their front door.