COMPLAINTS about the selling tactics of an alarm company have prompted police to urge householders to get written quotes before authorising work on their homes.

The company's representatives have cold called at addresses across Wyre Forest, offering alarms for a few hundred pounds. The price has then been put up, however - in one case to £4,000.

Trading standards officers with Worcestershire County Council, who are liaising with police, also received complaints at the end of last year. Police crime reduction officer, PC Ian White, said "We recommend householders get a minimum of three written quotes before choosing a company to carry out any sort of work on their home and a personal recommendation from relatives or friends is always best.

"If anyone agrees to have an alarm fitted, by law, they must be given a seven-day cooling off period."

Anyone with concerns can contact trading standards on 01905 765373 or Kidderminster police on 08457 444888.