PEOPLE in Northleach have fallen victim to doorstep criminals and the police have issued some vital advice.

A few residents at East End said they had doorstep callers last week, who were claiming to be on a criminal rehabilitation programme and selling household goods. Incidents have also been reported in Moreton.

They were offering self-produced permits which were worthless.

A member of Northleach and Eastington Town Council spoke to the local policing team and they have warned locals to not answer the door if they can help it.

A spokesman for the local policing team and neighbourhood watch said: "Never let them into your house for any reason. Persons receiving a visit from these callers are asked to phone the police at the time on 101, so that they can come out and check them over.

"Please do not assume that someone else will be making the call.

"The callers often say they have been trying a neighbours door – never share information with them. For example do not explain that people are on holiday or at work till late as they may use this information."

They also urged people to notify any neighbours or family members who could be vulnerable to these callers.