A MOTHER today warned residents to be wary of doorstep callers selling mobile phones in Weymouth and Portland.

Christine Wright, 46, of Chapelhay Heights, Weymouth, said her bank details were taken when she was trying to buy a mobile phone from a door-to-door salesman.

Mrs Wright, a mother of three, said: "The man said he was selling the 3 brand mobile phone contracts and it sounded like a really good deal.

"It was 1,000 minutes and 750 text messages a month for just £20 a month.

"I asked him if I could have two - one for my daughter Vicky - and they said that would be all right."

Mrs Wright said the man brought out a portable photocopier and copied her bank cards and drivers' licence.

But when the phones were not delivered to the house two days later Mrs Wright contacted 3 to find out what the problem was.

They told her they did not use travelling salesmen and had no record of her on their system.

Mrs Wright said she immediately cancelled her cards although nothing had been taken from her accounts.

Mrs Wright added: "I just want to warn people to be careful when anyone comes knocking on the door offering a deal too good to be true - because it probably is.

"I'll never trust anyone selling phones at the door again."

Police have warned householders not to let strangers, salesmen or officials into their home without identity or good reason.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "We would advise the general public to have a spy hole and chain fitted to their door.

"Before inviting anyone into your house we would advise you check they are a bona fide caller by asking for their identity cards through the chained door.

"Then find a number for the company, preferably from a phone book, and check his or her details."