Slam the door on the rogues' is the message being issued by Richmond Trading Standards in a bid to crack down on dodgy doorstep salesmen.

Thousands of people are offered goods at their doors nationwide everyday and Richmond residents are being warned not only may their goods be shoddy but some traders may also burgle your home.

Richmond upon Thames Council's trading standards manager Dave Smith said: "It is an unfortunate fact in today's society that there are many unscrupulous traders who target the vulnerable.

"The golden rule is never let anyone into your home if you are uncertain of who they are."

Residents are advised to ask for ID and ring the trader's company to check. It is also suggested that those with chains on their front doors keep them on until they are satisfied the caller is bona fide.

Before buying goods on the doorstep residents should ask themselves: l Do I trust the seller?

l Do I need this?

l Is this really a good price?

If a purchase is made they are advised to ensure they get a receipt and the seller's name and address. Furthermore they are warned never to accompany a trader to their bank to withdraw money.

Mr Smith added: "Any reputable sellers will be happy to give you time to make up your mind and check their credentials."

If callers refuse to leave residents are advised to dial 999.

Liberal Democrat councillor Bill Treble warned about the common nuisance of unsolicited telephone calls saying: "Beware of those offering free holidays etc as they require you to find more details by pressing 9' or requiring you to dial an 0900 number, both of which can cost you a lot of money.

"If you do not wish to receive these "cold" calls residents can register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS). This should reduce, if not stop altogether, these calls. They can be contacted via e-mail on tps@dma.org.uk"

Any residents who have concerns about doorstep traders operating in the area should alert Richmond Trading Standards on 020 8891 7770.