REPORTS of doorstop sales people have been made by residents of West Wylam and Western Avenue in Prudhoe.

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "On Tuesday, January 3, police received two reports of a man who was alleged to be knocking on the doors of residents in the Prudhoe area and trying to sell items.

"Enquiries are ongoing to locate the parties involved and establish if any criminal offences have been committed.

"As ever, we would advise members of the public to be vigilant. If somebody does turn up at your door asking for money, or acting suspiciously, do not hand anything over – say you are not interested and lock the door.

"Anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with an officer on patrol, call 101 or contact us via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website."

County Cllr Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South, said: "I am again receiving reports from residents of callers to their homes purporting to on a probation service ex-offenders scheme selling goods.

"These callers can become menacing and threatening, and residents are urged not to open their doors to such callers if practicable and if they do, not to enter into discussions with them but to politely decline and close the door.

"There is no known scheme, and the callers are scamming residents, who could buy better quality goods at a better price locally.

"To engage with the sellers will encourage return visits and possible criminal activity."

Home owners have the right to ask doorstep sellers if they hold a valid pedlar's licence, which will show their name and photograph.