Police are warning Wiltshire residents about cold callers who are selling poor quality goods and identifying targets for burglary.

Officers in Chippenham, Corsham, and Calne have been made aware of people who are going door to door selling items in the area “without Pedlars Certificates – so called ‘Nottingham Knockers’”.

These people may often offer household cleaning products for sale from rucksacks or suitcases.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “Please be vigilant, do not purchase anything and never hand over cash on your doorstep.

“If you feel threatened, close the door and contact police.

“Always ensure your property is fully secure.

“Look out for your elderly neighbours.

“The items offered are often of low quality and advertised at inflated prices.

“The sales pitches can also be part of a wider operation to identify burglary targets.

“Those involved may claim to be part of rehabilitation schemes and could produce ID cards.

These are entirely false and have no legal bearing.

“Never buy anything from these people and report them to police.

“Always dial 999 in an emergency.”