Shutting the door on cold callers (From This is The West Country)

Shutting the door on cold callers

2:50pm Tuesday 7th April 2009

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VILLAGERS in East Brent are shutting out unwelcome visitors - thanks to the creation of a “no cold calling” zone.

Police officers, Sedgemoor District Council, the parish council and members of the community have united to set up the exclusion zone, after concerns at the level of aggressive cold callers in the village at a Partners and Communities Together meeting.

Now clear signs in East Brent will warn rogue traders they are being watched and there will be designated areas where residents can have the confidence to say “no” to uninvited salesmen.

Sgt Steve Lawrence, from Burnham's rural neighbourhood team, told the Weekly News the measure was being taken to target doorstep crime and protect villagers in their homes.

He said: “The visible roadside signs will be a deterrent to rogue traders and those cold callers whose aggressive techniques can intimidate residents.

“The PACT meeting highlighted the real issue in East Brent and the project has been very much community driven with support from all agencies involved.”

The zone, which has seen community partners working together, has been used in other areas throughout the county - and police have already seen a decrease in the number of calls where people have reported canvassing taking place.

What do you think of the initiative? Call us on 01278-727960 or e-mail newsdesk@burnhamnews.co.uk to give YOUR opinion.

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