A LEADING councillor says he wants to highlight the issue of high pressured selling tactics and is urging people to be careful on having any work done on their home, after saying he saw a suspected "dodgy tree surgeon".

Warndon Parish Council's vice chairman Councillor Andrew Cross said he was out in Warndon Villages on Saturday morning, when he witnessed someone knocking on doors and pushing to do work.

Cllr Cross said: "Dodgy 'tree surgeons' are about currently.

"The one I saw was touting for work (in the south of the parish) on Saturday morning, offering not particularly cheap rates.

"There were so many alarm bells - anyone good will be seriously busy at present, not touting for work.

"They had no company name on the van, and he was using pressurised tactics."

Cllr Cross said he was anxious people don't get scammed by rogue traders so is urging people to follow tips.

Cllr Cross said: "I want people to be vigilant.

"Do the sensible thing, be wary of those using those selling tactics.

"It is advised to check they are legitimate, so check with companies house to make sure you are dealing with a proper company."

West Mercia Police tips include checking the identity of a doorstep caller by telephoning the company they are purporting to be from, using the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider.

Checking whether traders are members of the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme or the Government Trust Mark scheme.

People are also advised to discuss any work they feel needs carrying out on their property with a relative or friend who can help them find a reputable trader.

They are also advised not to agree to any work or sign anything on the spot and not to let themselves be pressured into having any work carried out.

The police urge people never to pay cash up front and never go to the bank or cash point with a trader.

If you suspect a rogue trader is at your door the advice is to call 999.