News posted by PCSO Neil Cronshaw on Lancashire Constabulary's 'In The Know' website:

Thanks for information from residents in Banks today, a door to door salesman was stopped checked and then arrested for other offences.

Some advice on Cold Callers:

Cold callers can be persistent but it’s important to remember that this is your home; you have every right to be cautious and you’re not obligated to let anyone inside that you don’t feel comfortable with.

'Door step sellers' are becoming an increasing problem, usually targeting older people. Someone comes to your door with the aim of scamming you out of money or trying to gain access to your home to steal items. In some cases, the sellers portray to be reformed criminals who are looking to start their lives again.

You can put up a 'no cold callers' sign which should deter them from knocking on your door.

If you are the victim of this and the callers refuse to leave, you can contact the police. If you are not in immediate danger, we would advise that you make a report via the non-emergency 101 number or on the 999 number in an emergency.