NOTTINGHAM Knockers in Upton-upon-Severn have prompted a warning from West Mercia Police.

The news was confirmed today by the Upton-upon-Severn local safer neighbourhood policing team.

Nottingham knockers are described as groups of individuals, typically young men, who travel from the north east of the country, knocking doors, targeting vulnerable and elderly people.

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PC Kevin Johns, of the Upton-upon-Severn safer neighbourhood team, said: "Today we received a call in relation to Nottingham Knockers being in the Upton-upon-Severn area, but despite our efforts none of those involved were located. 

"We're working with Trading Standards in order to tackle doorstep crime and there is legislation to deal with people who commit these type of offences, therefore, if you receive a visit from a rogue trader, please call the police on 101."

Nottingham Knockers often claim to be on a rehabilitation scheme, or similar, with a holdall of overpriced household items which they are trying to sell.  

The police update reminded residents that the men are not on a rehabilitation scheme and the Probation Service does not send people out selling door-to-door. 

Trading as a pedlar without a certificate is an offence and a number of these individuals have been prosecuted.

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Genuine pedlar's certificates are issued by the chief constable of the police force where they live. 

A laminated 'Hawker's ID' or 'Work Creation' card is not a pedlar's certificate.

Crimes can also be reported to West Mercia Police by visiting the website and using the 'Tell Us About' form at https://www.westmercia.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or by visiting the website at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/.