Having paid £100 there and then and given a cheque for £900 it was only after they had left that the couple realised they had been talked into buying fish that they neither need or want.

Many door-to-door traders are genuine and provide a valuable service however there are some who are prepared to take advantage of vulnerable or older people and persuade them to buy things that they may not want or need, sometimes at inflated prices.

Remember, you do not have to buy from doorstep salespeople. If you do not want their goods tell them that you are not interested and to leave your property.

If you do agree to buy goods make sure that you know what you have bought and, if you are concerned in any way just say no. Alternatively you may ask them to return when you will have someone else with you who can check on the transaction. It is unlikely that a trickster will risk returning.

This incident has been referred to Trading Standards

Sgt Bob Chapman,Police Direct