Police would like to speak to this man in connection with the incident. Image supplied by reader.

I have been alerted to a worrying incident that happened in Poole Crescent, Brownhills this afternoon (Saturday, 24th March 2018) when a door to door caller was touting for work clearing gutters, and seems to have received payment for work in advance he then did not carry out.

A reader contacted me:

Hi Bob, hope you’re well?

I was just wondering if you could send out a post.

An incident occurred today in Poole Cresent Brownhills West, there was a guy knocking on doors saying he would clean guttering for money.

After one elderly neighbour took him up on the offer and gave him money in advance he is believed to have left without carrying out any work.

He was driving the white Peugeot van seen in the picture.

If we can make people vigilant that this is happening in the area.

As much info as possible would be appreciated – the police have been notified and they would welcome any help possible.

Cheers

I have the email address of the police officer dealing with this if required.

Please tell your relatives and neighbours about door to door callers and impress upon them how important it is not to buy from, or accept services at the door, no matter how plausible the people offering them. Genuine companies will always contact you by other means.

Explain that no official body will turn up unannounced demanding money for services like gardening, drain cleaning, tree pruning etc., and that if they are at all unsure of any caller, to close the door and contact the police.

Please,  if you have any further information relating to this incident, or if you witnessed something significant please contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 (999 in an emergency, obviously) or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.