Warning of so-called "Nottingham Knocker" doorstep seller group targeting the county

The so-called “Nottingham Knocker”, the name given to a gang of salesmen, sell products at over inflated prices, according to West Mercia Neighbourhood Watch.

Craig Cox, aged 55, chair of

said: “The group is unlicensed and uses threatening behaviour at the door to people who refuse to buy.

They've been spotted visiting houses in Droitwich, Stourport and Evesham.

“As a group, we work in conjunction with the police to try and get arrests made.

These sort of people work in phases, coming from outside the county and returning at the end of the day.

“Our role as a community scheme is to raise awareness - we are not vigilantes.”

Mr Cox has advice if the “Nottingham Knocker” calls.

“If you don’t know who is calling at the door, particularly if you’re vulnerable, simply don’t answer it - it’s really not worth the risk

“Ask the caller to leave and if they refuse call 999 if you feel threatened.

“Join us on social media and this is where we share much of our information so people can tell each other if the gang is in their area on a particular day.

“If you know a neighbour that doesn’t use the internet, visit them and make sure they're aware.

“We want to bring the community together, but we don’t want to create undue panic.”

Suspicious activity can be reported to

on 0900 555111.