POLICE have issued a warning to residents not to be caught out by rogue traders operating in the area.

Cheshire Police is making people aware of con artists who targeted a Stockton heath resident yesterday, Thursday.

They claimed to be carrying out work for a neighbour before demanding money from the resident after being given access to their garden.

Officers have also issued a warning over storing bicycles safely after a bench was damaged by a determined thief.

The force’s Stockton Heath Police team said: “On Thursday, we received a report of a rogue trader incident whereby a resident was charged an excessive amount for some tree maintenance.

“They knocked at the victim’s property stating they needed to access their garden as they were trimming the branches of an overhanging tree from a neighbouring property.

“Unbeknown to the victim, the neighbour had not arranged for any work to be completed and then paid for the services provided.

“Please be vigilant to anyone knocking at your property offering their services and look out for any vulnerable neighbours or residents in your area.”

The team also said: “We have also received a report of an attempted bike theft whereby the offender has cut through a wooden bench in an attempt to take the bike.

“Fortunately, on this occasion, the offender has been disturbed by a member of the public.

“If you are a cyclist that leaves your bike in the area, please ensure you are using a good quality lock that would not be easily cut or damaged, and that the bike is left in high footfall areas where there is CCTV coverage.”