TRADING Standards officers are warning people to beware rogue traders after an increase in reports of doorstep crime.

There were 31 incidents reported in Lancashire last month, compared to 17 in February and 11 in January.

These included reports of rogue roofers in Chorley who cold-call, offering to replace soffits and fascia boards, and carry out repairs that are not needed.

People have also reported cold-callers in Accrington and Haslingden falsely claiming to carry out work on behalf of councils.

Cllr Albert Atkinson, deputy leader of Lancashire County Council, said: "Rogue traders tend to target people at this time of year when the weather is getting better and people are planning home improvements.

"They offer everything from roofing repairs to garden improvements and we'd urge everyone to beware.

"Trading Standards' advice is not to agree to cold-callers offering to carry out property repairs.

"Remember if you agree to a contract in your home and have second thoughts, you have 14 days to cancel."

People have also reported receiving emails asking them to update their bank details, because of billing problems with their Netflix account. This is a scam and people should ignore and delete the email.

The county council's Trading Standards team can be contacted via the Citizen's Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06.