'No cold calling' zones turn heat on doorstep traders

They have been set up after a police survey revealed that 30 per cent of people living in the area had been targeted by doorstep sellers.

Trading standards officers and police have been working together to deter people selling on the doorstep and catch rogue traders. They have patrolled the area together, talking to people they see working on houses and driveways to check they have not been trading door-to-door. Window stickers and lamp post signs have also been put up declaring the area a no-cold calling zone.

A pilot scheme has also been established which enables householders to telephone for help when they are concerned about someone selling on the doorstep, summoning trading standards and police officers to their home.

The zones have been set up in Coillesdene, the Durhams, Moira Park, Restalrig Avenue and Seaview Crescent.

The aim is to stop householders feeling pressured to buy goods and services on the doorstep even from bona fide traders, as well as cutting the number of people who fall prey to tricksters who overcharge, or take money and then disappear without doing any work.

Police say such crimes often go unreported because victims are too embarrassed or too intimidated to report them. The scheme is due to be launched in Portobello today.

City environment leader Councillor Robert Aldridge said: "I am delighted to be launching this important partnership which will hopefully result in many more people, especially those in vulnerable situations, feeling more secure in their own homes.

"Doorstep crime is a callous and deceitful act and through our work with the police, we know there are some unscrupulous characters out there who will take advantage of others if they get the chance. The formation of these zones in the east of the city will help prevent many of the problems associated with cold calling, high pressure selling and bogus workmen."

Police Inspector Nadine Aliane said most doorstep callers were legitimate, but householders had a right to choose not to have calls at their homes.

She added: "Doorstep crime is one which can have a huge effect on victims because, by its very nature, it is personal and intrusive. Where there is crime or intent to commit crime, we are committed to dealing with reports promptly and robustly and working with partners to minimise the risk posed by bogus door-to-door sellers."

Edinburgh already has 11 cold calling zones, covering 2000 homes. It is hoped to roll out the scheme to cover 28 zones and 4000 homes.