PEOPLE living in the Winchester area have been warned about cold callers after an elderly resident was targeted.

On Monday, police received reports of cold caller targetting an elderly resident in the Shedfield area.

The individual is said to have stated that he would be attending the resident's property to cut down a tree and requested a deposit.

The victim thought this was a genuine tradesman at first, but later realised something was not right.

They alerted a friend who later reported the incident to police.

Now officers in the area are sharing information to help combat against incidents like this.

A Hampshire Police spokesperson said on Facebook: "If you have any elderly or vulnerable friends or relatives, Please share the following information from Hampshire Trading Standards.

"Be on your guard against strangers at your door. It can be difficult to tell whether the person is genuine, a rogue trader offering repairs or home improvements, or a bogus caller/distraction burglar trying to get into your home."

"There is no obligation for you to allow any person into your home, and you are within your rights to refuse access. Sound advice is to say "No” to all doorstep cold callers."