Nottingham knockers have been reported in the rural villages outside of Royston

These are cold callers who usually tell residents they are ex-offenders trying to go straight, then try and sell poor quality, over-priced cleaning or household products.

They may also offer services such as roof or driveway repairs and cleaning.  

Police want to remind residents they are under no obligation to answer the door to anybody they do not know or are not expecting.

If you do talk to them, they are supposed to be able to provide a valid pedlar’s certificate and should leave your property when asked.

Householders are recommended to use a door chain and ask to see the identification of unexpected callers.

Genuine callers would expect to have identification checked before opening the door and would be happy to make an appointment to return when the resident had a relative or friend with them.

You can follow this link for more information: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/scams-fraud/doorstep-scams/

If suspicious, you should ring 101 straight away, or 999 in an emergency