Door Step Callers Update

I sent out an email about doorstep pedlars last week as someone reported that they had been approached by such an individual recently. Since this time quite a few people have emailed and mentioned they have received similar calls. From the descriptions provided it appears there may be a number of individuals trying this story, thus far only males have been reported as trying to sell items at the door.

Can I ask that people continue to report what they feel are suspicious doorstep callers. If they are of particular concern at the time or their behaviour is inappropriate they can be reported directly to the police via 0845 458 0000 so that any free patrols can make a search of the area. Otherwise information can be forwarded to myself to pass around other coordinators - please try and forward as much information as possible with regards to approx age, appearance and any distinguishing factors and if they offer any details about who they are, working for etc.

I have provided details of some of the reports I have received below - mainly those with a description of callers. It seems that all callers have been knocking with the intention of selling items and do not appear to have any ulterior motives from the reports received:

1.) My parents, who live in St John's Ward near to South Cheshire College, have informed me that they had such a caller at their door last night. My father has provided the following description of the individual:

White male, aged 40 - 45, average height. Scruffy appearance with wavy, mid-length dark brown hair and possibly a missing/black tooth. He was wearing a dark blue anorak and carrying a long, black holdall bag. He flashed a yellow piece of paper at my father when he opened the door. He did not find out where the individual was from as told him 'no thank you' straight away. The male was mumbling to himself as he left my father's drive. The male only approached certain houses along the street, in general it appeared houses with the cars parked up the driveways.

2.) A coordinator from Willaston, Nantwich reported that three young males called at her door stating they were from probation a couple of weeks ago. Upon asking them a few questions they seemed perturbed and left her property.

3.) A report from Shavington mentions that an individual called about a week ago. He claimed to be an ex-offender and stated he was from Northampton. He had dark hair and a scar across his forehead.

On a positive note coordinators are generally reporting that no one is buying from these individuals. One coordinator reported that a pedlar left his driveway mumbling about how 'no one want to buy around here'. This is excellent news as this particular pedlar (and no doubt others) are having little success selling items in the borough. Much of this is down to your continued support as home watch coordinators and members in circulating information amongst your schemes (and subsequently on to friends and family). May I take this opportunity to thank you for this continued support.