REDDITCH people are being warned by police to be on their guard against an aggressive group of workers targeting the area.

The group is believed to be using the M5 motorway to access homes and businesses across the region.

A man is calling at the door and asking householders if there is any resurfacing work which needs doing.

Even if the householder does not agree to it, they return a few hours later and start doing work.

The workers then demand money and get violent when payment for the work is refused.

They have even accompanied householders to the bank or building society to withdraw the money and make threatening phone calls to those who continue to refuse payment.

Police are warning residents not to accept offers of work from anyone who touts for business on the doorstep.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 08457 444 888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.