People living in Exeter are being warned to be vigilant following reports of a suspected doorstep scam targeting vulnerable individuals.
An elderly resident in the St Thomas area was approached by men claiming to be contractors hired by the Council to carry out gardening works.
They demanded immediate cash payments of over £800 in total, under the false pretext of hedge cutting linked to paving improvements.
The individuals claimed they were from a company named CH Tree & Hedge Services and falsely stated the Council would be contacting the resident by email.
The resident, recently bereaved, was left distressed and confused.
Exeter City Council has confirmed that neither it nor Devon County Council, which oversees highways, commissioned this work. Council staff or contractors will never ask for cash payments on the doorstep.
Residents are advised not to engage with anyone making such claims and to report incidents to Action Fraud and the police on 101. If in doubt, always verify with the Council directly.
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