Julie Dean, North Lincolnshire Council Trading Standards Officer, came to talk to us about door step scams. She told us that the lone elderly householder was the most vulnerable. The door step scammers seem to be able to pick them out, often by looking at the style of curtains, gardens etc. If you suspect that someone is trying to scam you please get as much information as possible, eg. a vehicle registration, contact number, address etc and report the matter to the Trading Standards people. Often these scammers start by offering to do a small job, which then escalates and soon becomes a very expensive project. Roof repairs, tree cutting and gardening services seem to be the most popular. If you have not asked someone to call do not be taken in by these people. A genuine tradesperson will not mind waiting at the door whilst you check their credentials. Sometimes they pretend to be from the police, water or other utility services. Always use your contact number for these people not one supplied by the person on your doorstep.