AN asphalting gang has been condemned for preying on an elderly victim in Barton-on-Sea.

A sick 88-year-old woman was driven to her bank and her building society and forced to withdraw more than £1,000 to pay for work carried out on her driveway.

The incident is the latest in a series in which elderly people have been hoodwinked by cold-callers.

Her daughter, a 64-year-old retired college lecturer, said her mother was ill with Menier's Disease, which causes loss of balance and bouts of sickness, when the team came knocking.

A price had been agreed but while work was being carried out an extra £120 was requested.

Then the workmen refused a cheque and insisted on cash.

One of the team, thought to be a Kurd, who did not speak English, drove her to town to collect the money. Later, another man arrived on her doorstep saying £50 was needed to guarantee the work. She refused to pay.

The daughter, who lives in Scotland, contacted the asphalting gang via a call centre and eventually they returned the £120.

"She agreed to the price for the driveway. It's the fact that they asked for the extra £120 and they wouldn't take a cheque and they drove her to get cash," said her daughter.

"Don't buy services at the door," she warned.

"Elderly people are vulnerable. My mother is 100 per cent mentally alert but was very unwell and very vulnerable at the time, and it's totally out of order driving her to the bank to get money."

After a complaint from another Barton resident, two men were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Last Saturday Police, Community Safety Officers, Special Constables and Neighbourhood Watch teams blitzed homes in Barton with warnings about doorstep selling.

"We thought that was the only way we could get the message across," said Sgt Dave Tanner.

"If in doubt, keep them out and dial 999."

Police advice

Always use a door viewer and chain before opening the door.

Ask for proof of identification.

Business cards and other identification should show a verifiable address and office telephone number, NOT a mobile phone number - ie. not a number beginning with 07.

Telephone the company to confirm the caller's identity.

Get a friend or neighbour round for moral support.

Never sign anything until taking advice from a relative, Trading Standards officer or Citizen's Advice volunteer.

Remember, you have seven days cancellation rights on goods and services costing more than £35 from uninvited sellers.

First published: May 21