Residents in the East Wight are warning fellow Islanders about cold callers currently attempting to sell teak furniture from the back of a van.
At least 2 white Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans have been visiting areas including Brading and Bembridge over the past 2 days in an attempt to sell furniture. 1 of the vans is not MOTed.
It is claimed that the traders are from London and normally sell at shows.
According to one local, the men have become ‘very aggressive’ when challenged, using lots of bad language.
Police have been informed of the situation.
Tops tips to avoid rogue traders
Rogue traders are individuals or groups of people who cold-call householders, often targeting vulnerable residents, claiming to be a legitimate business and offering goods or services.
• Never pay upfront to cold callers
• Check the Trading Standards’ trader approval scheme, where local traders are vetted for compliance with consumer legislation, at http://www.iwight.com/IOWtraderAS
• Be vigilant for your elderly or vulnerable neighbours
• Report your concerns to the Police or the Trading Standards Service hotline on 01983 823371
Maybe I am being stupid. But can’t the police ask the ferry companies to call them when these vans get on the ferry. Then fine them for breaking the rules and anything else they are up to. Seems like they are trapped here. Easy win.
16.06
Driving through freshwater, slowly past building sites.
They were driving slowly in Ryde today. East Hill road at 14.30. Looking at the houses.
If it helps one of the vans was on the Victoria Of Wight ( Sun 14 March). It came off what became the 1800 sailing from Fishbourne to Portsmouth
Makes you wonder where are they staying?
Someone must know.
Van’s parked outside or somewhere unusual !
Let’s hope they get caught quickly.