RESIDENTS in Amesbury are being urged to stay vigilant against doorstep scams after police carried out another round of targeted crime prevention visits.

Officers from the Amesbury Neighbourhood Policing Team were out on Ratfyn Road this week, speaking directly to residents and delivering information packs, warning notices and Neighbourhood Watch details.

The visit is the latest in a series of high-visibility patrols and engagement efforts by local officers – something readers will recognise as part of wider coverage highlighted in the Gazette.

Police say the focus is on tackling doorstep crime, which tends to rise during the spring and summer months.

Residents were warned about rogue traders who turn up unannounced offering services such as urgent roof repairs, garden work or “free” checks – often pressuring people into agreeing to costly and unnecessary work.

During the visits, officers spoke to households about how to spot the warning signs and protect themselves, while also encouraging people to look out for elderly or more vulnerable neighbours.

Key advice includes never agreeing to work from cold callers, avoiding cash payments and always checking a trader’s credentials before committing.

People are instead urged to seek recommendations from trusted sources and use approved trader schemes.

Police are also reminding residents that unlicensed waste carriers could leave homeowners liable if rubbish is fly-tipped and traced back to them.

Anyone who notices suspicious behaviour is asked to report it to Trading Standards or police via 101, while emergencies should always be reported via 999.

The latest operation underlines an ongoing effort by neighbourhood officers to stay visible in the community and tackle issues before they escalate.