Police are urging people in west Cumbria to be on their guard when dealing with door-to-door sales people following concerns over some doorstep callers.

Officers have been made aware of a number of sales people claiming to be former offenders and working for charity.

Doubts have been raised over their credentials, with the sales people operating in and around Cleator Moor, Seascale, Frizington and Moor Row.

Sergeant David Slattery said: “We would like to take this opportunity to remind people there are some simple steps they can take to protect themselves against any door-to-door fraud.

“If anyone knocks at your door carrying out door-to-door selling activities, please ensure that they have identification, a contact telephone number for their head office and a registered business or charity number.

“If anyone has any doubts of the credibility of any doorstep seller then they are not to engage with them and politely decline their business.”

Anyone with any concerns can contact police on 101.