POLICE are warning householders to be on their guard following an incident in which a 71-year old woman living at an address in Horncastle was approached by two men travelling in a white Transit-style van, claiming to be tree surgeons.

The older of the two men, described as having greying hair, around 5ft 8in tall and wearing a blue polo shirt, cold-called at the address in Mark Avenue, and told the woman that her trees needed cutting.

He offered to carry out the work for £200 immediately, but if they had to come back to carry out the work it would cost her a further £100.

The woman asked the man if he had a business card or identification and found he did not.

Because of the suspicious nature of the approach, she then declined the offer and the two men left.

Police are warning householders to be on their guard against anyone offering services on the doorstep.

A police spokesman said: "These people usually prey on the older and more vulnerable people in the community and carry out work that is usually shoddy, often unnecessary, overpriced and invariably unfinished.

"They also use underhand tactics by quoting a sum of money then demanding larger amounts when finished.

"Advice to householders is never to buy from uninvited doorstep callers, but do some research beforehand and choose a reputable local company.

"Finally, always use your door chain and never leave large amounts of cash in your home."

The incident took place at around 12.15pm on May 19.

Anyone requiring further advice on how to deal with doorstep callers should contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.