POLICE have urged Ryedale residents to report young offenders going door-to-door selling household items who are claiming to be undertaking the work under the instruction of the police.

A number of young offenders have been cold calling in the Ryedale area over the past week, claiming to be selling household items as part of their probation supervision.

PCSO Annie Simpson, of Pickering Safer Neighbourhood Team, said residents must be vigilant if they get a visit from a young offender doing door-to-door sales.

She said: “North Yorkshire Police have been made aware that people have been cold calling in the Ryedale area, claiming to be selling household items as part of their probation supervision. If you get door-to-door sellers saying they are from young offenders people report on 101 as Probation Service do not endorse this.”

North Yorkshire Police said that Trading Standards has confirmed that the sales are not endorsed by the Probation Service and asked people to be cautious if they are cold called by someone.

PCSO Simpson said: “Please exercise caution even if the person presents what appears to be a valid ID. If you receive such a call and wish to notify the Police, the non-emergency number is 101.”