Rogue traders attempted to con an elderly Isle of Wight couple out of £1,000.

The couple, who wish to remain anonymous, nearly fell victim to a scam after two individuals knocked on their door and offered to do some gardening work.

It is alleged that the two men cut a few branches off a tree in the back garden, and demanded a cheque of £1,000 for the work.

The con was only unsuccessful because one of the victims wrote the cheque incorrectly.

Speaking to the County Press, relative of the couple Lucy White said: "They came back the following morning and demanded another cheque."

The victim said that they would have to wait until they went to the bank, with the rogue traders saying they'd be back by 5pm.

"As a family, we all went round to see exactly what these people were charging £1,000 for, and we had a word with them for trying to con that amount of money."

Lucy and her family phoned the police, who attended the scene and left a police car outside for a while.

She described the police as "going as a deterrent", but no arrests were made, and police now believe that the two men have left the Island.

"The police could be a deterrent all the while that they were there, but they eventually leave and we have to go home to feed our children.

"The two men just kept calling and knocking on the door, front door and back door at the same time, ringing bells.

"I stayed until I could stay no longer because I had work, and when I left they turned up again."

Lucy found out the vehicle that the two men were using was later seen in Lymington.

She said: "My elderly relatives are feeling extremely vulnerable. It is in the back of their mind that another group may be sent down to the Island."

Lucy has plans to set up a GoFundMe page to help victims of scams on the Island recover, and encourages people that have experienced similar to contact her on 07535 713574.

She said: "I don't want people worried about getting in touch. 

"A lot of elderly people don't have family on the Island that can keep in contact with them and check on them every day, and that's where my relative is lucky."

Police said in a statement: "We were called on Thursday, September 5, to a report of suspected rogue traders operating in the Cowes area.

"It is believed the group has since left the Island. Officers have provided residents with crime prevention advice. 

"We urge locals to share our advice with any friends, neighbours and relatives – particularly if they are elderly or have vulnerabilities."

For more scams advice contact IWASP (Isle of Wight Against Scams Partnership) who have a monthly column in the County Press.

Police advise the following when dealing with door-to-door scams:

  • Discuss any work you feel needs carrying out on your property with a relative or friend who can help you find a reputable trader
  • Always check the credentials of unknown callers. Anyone selling door to door needs a pedlar’s certificate, which you can ask to see
  • Don’t agree to any work or sign anything on the spot. Do not be pressured into having any work carried out
  • Never pay cash up front and never go to the bank or cash point with a trader
  • If you suspect a rogue trader is at your door, or if you feel intimidated or they are refusing to leave, call 999
  • Keep an eye on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, friends and family