WARNINGS have been made about scammers and fraudsters following a spate of incidents in East Lancashire.

Lancashire County Council's trading standards team said an Accrington woman was targeted by scam callers pretending to be from the Ministry of Justice.

The caller addressed her, by name and said she had overpaid on the mortgage and claimed there was a £3,000 cheque waiting for her - if she provided their bank details and paid a £150 fee.

In Ribble Valley doorstep duster sellers were found using pushy tactics to get people to buy their goods.

In Ramsbottom, the council were made aware of door-to-door fish sellers using high pressure sales tactics to get people to buy more fish than they needed to, sometimes spending more than £200.

There have also been reports of bogus roofers operating across the county trying to charge too much for simple work or offering to carry out repairs that are not needed.

Paul Noone, head of the council's trading standards service, said: "We've had several alerts relating to door-to-door sellers.

"These include traders using pushy sales tactics, or recommending work that just isn't needed.

"You should never agree to work offered by cold calling traders on your doorstep, and always do your research before buying goods and services.

"Our safe trader scheme is a great way to find local traders to do work around your home.

"We've also received reports of a telephone scam and a possible letter scam.

"Again, people shouldn't agree to anything without going away and doing research and should never give their bank details to anyone who approaches them.

"Anyone wanting further help and advice should contact trading standards who will be happy to help."