POLICE have urged Ryedale residents to use caution when dealing with cold-callers, following reports in the district.

North Yorkshire Police say they have had reports of cold callers in the Ryedale area selling household products.

The sellers often claim to be ex-offenders or ex-servicemen and say that the money from any products sold will be going to a charity or to help them get back on their feet.

Cold calling refers to when someone makes an unsolicited visit or call to try and sell goods or services.

While cold-calling and door-to-door selling are not offences themselves, a spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police explained that sellers “must have a 'Pedlar's Licence' which is acquired from the local police force.”

The force spokesperson urged residents to use caution when dealing with cold callers, in case the sellers are not legitimate.

READ NEXT: More than 350 'missing' cancer diagnoses in North Yorkshire in 2020

“If someone knocks on your door and you don't know them, don't let them in and please contact us on 101,” said the spokesperson.

“If they are from a legitimate organisation, they will be carrying an ID card and will be happy for you to ring their customer services department to verify who they are.”