TRADING standards officers have reported a sharp increase in the number of rogue tarmac gangs operating in Poole.

They’ve issued a warning to residents to be on their guard against door-to-door salesmen offering to replace paths and driveways.

“They will often claim they are working for the council or on a project nearby and have some spare tarmac left over,” said Poole trading standard officer Andy Shimmen.

Gang members often demand payment in cash, sometimes even taking residents to their bank or cash machines to withdraw it.

Mr Shimmen said: “In one recent incident the trader claimed to be resurfacing the car park at a nearby supermarket.

“They weren’t, of course, but the householder was taken in and ended up spending £1,000s on a driveway that is already cracking up, is only a fraction of the recommended thickness and already has weeds growing through it a few weeks later.

“This was a drive that supposedly had a five year guarantee on it.”

Investigators believe a number of these rogue gangs are operating at the moment in the Poole area, no doubt taking advantage of the sunnier weather.

The gangs have been reportedly using strong-arm tactics against vulnerable residents.

One elderly resident discovered four men unloading a vehicle outside her house at 7.30am, even though she’d only asked for a written quote.

They had been moments away from digging up her existing driveway.

A Borough of Poole spokesman said in many cases the householder feels so intimidated they let the work start only to regret it later.

Cllr Xena Dion, cabinet portfolio holder for Environment and Local Economy, said: “If a trader is genuine they’ll give you a proper written quote detailing exactly what work will be done, the cost, and giving their full name and address.”

Visit buywithconfidence.gov.uk for information on approved, local traders.