A rogue trader tried to squeeze money out of a couple over a chimney repair.

The cowboy racked up the price and even offered to take them to the bank.

But the couple refused and now police have put out a general warning about bogus callers.

The incident happened in the London Road area of Hythe, yesterday morning.

A Kent Police spokesman said: “The couple were contacted directly by a workman who said he had noticed their chimney had been damaged in the strong winds and needed to be repaired.

“He offered to carry out the repairs for a price.

“After carrying out a small amount of work claimed it would be much more expensive.

"He tried to pressurise the couple into paying and even said he would take them to the bank. The couple declined.”

The incident had been reported to police by the local Kent County Council community warden.

Kent Police is offering the following advice against rogue traders.

Firstly, do not deal with doorstep callers offering work on your home or garden.
Secondly check that the tradesperson is from the organisation they say they are from.

Also ask for quotes in writing and ring more than three traders to get an average price for the job.

Kent Police also have a leaflet warning about all forms of cold callers and scammers, including those who approach by writing or telephone.

It adds that rogue traders will overcharge or take money and never deliver the goods or services they have promised.

When goods and services are offered don’t sign anything on the spot. Also don’t pay for work before it has been completed and only then if you are happy with it.

Sometimes criminals will pose as salesmen to get into your home to steal straight away or check it out for a future burglary.

The leaflet can be found on the Kent Police website.

It is under the heading personal safety and fraud in the advice and licences section.
Visit http://www.kent.police.uk/advice/personal/your_guide/attachments/your_guide_fraud.pdf.