South Tyneside Alert on
Rogue Gardeners |
11 Apr 2005 |
Residents of South Tyneside are being asked to beware
of bogus callers claiming to be from the Council after
reports of 'cold callers' in the Jarrow and Hebburn
areas.
Men claiming to work for South Tyneside Council have
been cold calling at homes and telling residents they
have shrubs and bushes that need pruning, before carrying
out the job and charging a high price.
Councillor Michael Clare, Lead Member for Neighbourhood
Services, warns residents what to look out for. He says:
"Every Council employee carries a photo identity
card, wears uniforms with the Council name on and, of
course, does not 'cold call' or charge for the work.
"I would warn people to be on their guard as the
amount these people are charging is very high when the
Council will undertake the same job free of charge."
Several instances of fly tipping of tree branches have
also been reported and it is very likely that the bogus
callers are responsible.
If anyone has been approached by these men, please
call Trading Standards on 424 7898. Alternatively, if
residents want to report any shrubs or bushes that require
pruning then please the local housing office.
This warning has also been sent by text message to
those residents who have signed up to the Trading Standards
text message alert scheme.
Councillor Clare urged more people to sign up for the
scheme: "If you are an elderly resident of South
Tyneside, or a carer of an elderly or vulnerable individual,
text the word 'doorstep' to 07786 200 802. Text messages
alerting you to scams or rogue traders in the borough
will then be notified directly to your phone."
South Tyneside residents who do not own, or have access
to, a mobile phone can still report their concerns about
environmental issues by calling the Council's contact
centre, on 427 7000 from Monday to Friday between 8am
and 8pm and between 9am and 1pm on Saturday.
Alternatively, they can use the e-services section
of the Council website at www.southtyneside.info or
by e-mail to: customerhelp@southtyneside.gov.uk
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