4 men have been arrested in connection with suspected rogue trading after an elderly woman was left feeling frightened in East Cowes this afternoon (Thursday). The group of males were detained by Police on Hefford Road whilst power washing the roof tiles of a residential property. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary says that the men are alleged to have started work without agreeing on a price, without providing a contract and without allowing a cooling-off period. Officers were alerted to the situation at 13:36 following reports that an elderly woman had been quoted £1,500 for roofing work and, after explaining she couldn’t afford it, the work was started anyway and demands were made for £800. This left the woman feeling frightened. Another man was also quoted £600 for work to be completed to his driveway, Police say. Island Echo understands that a number of addresses in the local area have been visited by the group today, where services such as driveway and roof cleans have been carried out. This photo shows the state of a driveway after being washed. 
A 39-year-old man, a 29-year-old man, a 19-year-old man and an 18-year-old man have all been arrested on suspicion of being a trader failing to provide required information in relation to an off-premises contract. They remain in custody at this time. An Irish-registered vehicle – which travelled across on the 10:00 Red Funnel ferry from Southampton – has been seized by Police and recovered. 
Police believe that other East Cowes residents may have been approached by traders today. If you believe you have been scammed and have not already been approached by the Police, then you are asked to report the offences to Isle of Wight Trading Standards on 01983 823000. A spokesperson for the force has said:
“We are aware rogue traders can be very persuasive and convincing in their approach, but remember having your roof cleaned is not an emergency, do not be taken in. Please ask for a contract and make use of the cooling off period. “For further information please see https://orlo.uk/IOW_Trading_Standards_kO8Qb. “Once again thank you to our communities for reporting concerning activities, it is nice to know people still look out for their neighbours”.
