POLICE in Tendring are urging people to report suspected rogue traders after a crackdown on bogus businesses last week.

The appeal comes following a joint operation between Essex Police and trading standards enforcers.

They joined forces to target rogue traders and warn vulnerable communities about conmen operating in their area.

A police spokesman said: "They may seem friendly and persuasive but too often they target vulnerable elderly people and carry out poor quality household repairs to roofs and driveways.

"They may claim to know your neighbours and have done work for them but often the work they promise to complete didn't need doing in the first place."

Officers used automatic number plate reader technology to track down potential suspects while acting on intelligence from trading standards.

PC Andy Long covered over 100 miles across the Tendring area and stopped a number of traders.

They were all genuine but told officers it was reassuring to see a crackdown on crooks who make it harder for legitimate traders to run businesses.

PC Long said: "We need to protect the vulnerable in our society and I urge anyone who has information about this matter to contact police or trading standards.

"If you are employing someone, please ensure you do the appropriate checks, avoid paying by cash if possible, obtain receipts and get quotes from other companies. You can always check with trading standards to ensure the company you are using is genuine.”