A local Lib Dem councillor’s prompt action has saved a vulnerable person being conned out of thousands of pounds.

An elderly lady in Towcester was recently visited by a salesman who persuaded her that her roof was defective and needed several thousand pounds of unnecessary repairs. The salesman spent over two hours at the property and was about to leave with a cheque in his pocket for nearly a thousand pounds as a deposit.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Chris Lofts happened to visit the elderly home owner just as the salesman was closing his deal. “I was very cross that a vulnerable lady living on her own had been frightened into signing a contract for work that was totally unneeded.” said Cllr Lofts, “The salesman was persuaded to tear up the contract and return the cheque before leaving. I have since sent the details of the incident to Northamptonshire County Council’s Trading Standards officers as I am worried that other elderly home owners in Towcester may be targeted.”

Trading Standards and the Government’s Consumer Direct organisations give sound advice about arranging building works or repairs. They advise being wary of salesmen saying you need work on your home that you were unaware of, always get three quotes for the work, ask for examples of where similar work has been carried out so you can check the quality and do not pay in advance for work. If home owners are in any doubt they should contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or Northamptonshire Trading Standards on 01604 236236.