Residents of a small Ayrshire village have been advised to be on their guard – after reports of bogus workmen operating in the area.
Dailly Community Council flashed the warning after it was alerted to ‘suspicious activity’ by a concerned resident.
In a statement, the group said: “A concerned resident has brought to our attention that two men in hi-viz jackets entered a garden and appeared to be measuring the dimensions of a house, without obtaining permission.
“The younger man also took photos on his mobile. They indicated that they were preparing prices for the council, and could give a discount, if private.
“We understand they visited various houses in Wood Street and they were driving a white pickup truck, with no company insignia/ID.”
Dailly Community Council say it contacted South Ayrshire Council in an attempt to confirm if the men were working on their behalf but were told the local authority has “not commissioned” any companies to undertake survey work in Wood Street.”
It added: “ South Ayrshire Counci l have been contacted and they have not commissioned any companies to do survey work in Wood Street, and there is no planned work for Wood Street in the immediate future. Please be careful.”
Ayrshire Police say taking the following steps can protect residents from doorstep crime:
- Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly
- Keep front and back doors locked
- Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door
- Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door
- Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful
In addition, police say always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
Suspicious activity and criminality should be reported immediately to Police Scotland by calling 101 (in an emergency always dial 999).
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