Homeowners in Abingdon have been warned to be on their guard against rogue workmen charging thousands of pound for shoddy and unnecessary repair work.
The men have been turning up uninvited on doorsteps in the south of the town over the past week, charging up to £3,000 for minor soffit and guttering work.
Police believe the travelling workmen have been targeting elderly householders.
They say they 'cold call' without invitation, and only accept cash for the work they carry out.
Police have now offered advice to pensioners to prevent being conned by cowboy workmen.
Police stress that people should always be prepared to ask for identification and the reason for the call, as genuine workmen will not be offended.
They also urge the elderly to fit and use door chains, and feel confident to refuse callers if they have any suspicions about them.
Anyone concerned about uninvited callers is asked to ring the police on 01865 266000, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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