Dear All

It has been brought to our attention that Land Rover 4x4s are currently being stolen to order in large quantities from the UK, particularly the north, as they possess unique parts which are required to replace ageing or defective parts used in other Land Rovers primarily in Eastern Europe and Africa.  The most common Land Rover to be currently stolen is the Defender, both new and old.  It is anticipated that we will start to see a rise in this type of vehicle crime in our area soon.  Over the last week we have had attempted theft and thefts of Land Rover 4x4s.  Land Rover owners are asked to be vigilant and any suspicious activity should be reported immediately.

Polish cold callers update – just to let you know that since the middle of last week, we haven’t had any more calls about them, so looks like they descended upon us ‘en masse’ then departed just as quickly.  However, should they return, please let us know.

Hampshire Trading Standards have asked us to reiterate their advice in light of their Rogue Traders week:

• Roof Repairs (loose tiles, missing tiles) – some asking for small amounts of money for the repairs then increasing the cost when further faults are found.
• Roof cleaning (including power washing which can cause damage) and repairs.
• Cleaning driveways, pavements, patios - often by power wash systems.  These often cause damage and charges are inflated.
• Security - telephoned crime or security surveys.  Asking quite personal questions regarding home security.  The aim will be to sell you an alarm system.  Often high pressure selling, visits to ascertain what is required and even ‘free’ systems and untrue statements that Trading Standards approve and direct response by the police.
• Tarmac – re-surfacing work to drives and paths.
• Tree surgery and gardening services. 

Some of these traders are not providing consumers with the required notice of right to cancel (7 day cooling off period); others are inflating costs for work which is not necessary and demanding cash.

Please be on your guard with regard to cold callers either on your doorstep or by telephone.  Please do not hesitate to contact the Quick Response Team on 01962 833 666.  Full details of these warnings can be found on our website:  www3.hants.gov.uk/tradingstandards/tradingstandards-scams.htm

Kind regards
Mims

WPC 235 Miriam Edwards
Beat Officer - Tadley Police Station
Tel: 0845 045 4545
Fax: 01256 405164
Mobile: 07770 471621
miriam.edwards@hampshire.pnn.police.uk 
www.hampshire.police.uk