Kirkholt Residents Warned as Bogus Gardeners Scam Hundreds in Doorstep Fraud

Kirkholt, Rochdale – Residents in Kirkholt are being urged to exercise extreme caution after a series of doorstep scams saw vulnerable individuals lose hundreds of pounds to fraudsters posing as gardeners.

Police and Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) have issued a joint warning following reports of two men and a woman, wearing hi-vis clothing and operating from a flatbed van, who have been defrauding residents over recent days.

The individuals have been knocking on doors, offering gardening services. Victims pay upfront for the work, which is then never completed as the scammers fail to return.

Tragically, one elderly lady in her 80s was scammed out of £900, while another vulnerable woman lost £310 to the fraudsters. The bogus callers have reportedly claimed to work for RBH, prompting the housing association to clarify that their staff always carry official identification.

PCSO Andrew Stewart, from Rochdale Neighbourhood Police, emphasised the importance of vigilance.

How to Stay Safe and Avoid Doorstep Scams:

• Verify Identity: RBH staff always carry ID. If you are unsure or in doubt about someone claiming to be from RBH, call their Freephone number on 0800 027 7769 to verify their identity.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately to the police by calling 101 or by visiting the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) website.
• Beware of Upfront Payments: Avoid handing over cash upfront for services. Reputable traders will typically provide a written quote and payment terms.
• Request Written Quotes: Always request a written quote that includes the business name, address, and contact details. Do not accept quotes on scraps of paper.
• Know Your Rights: If you agree to work with a legitimate trader from your doorstep, you are usually entitled to a 14-day cancellation period.
• Find Trusted Traders: Never buy services from cold callers. Instead, seek recommendations from friends or family, or check trusted trader schemes like 'Buy With Confidence' at www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk.

Authorities urge residents to share this information with elderly or vulnerable neighbours to help prevent further incidents.