Police have called on residents to remain vigilant after two cold callers broke the guttering and telephone line of a person they tried to sell their services to.

They called on the home in Selsea Avenue, Herne Bay, at around midday on Thursday, February 1, offering to do work on it for £350.

The fee was to replace its asbestos guttering with plastic piping and, attempting to demonstrate its age, one of them pulled part of it down and damaged the telephone line in the process.

Sergeant Lee Thompson said: “The men did leave when the occupant asked them to, and it may be that they were perfectly legitimate, but we would always advise people not to buy at the door and never let people they don’t know into their home.

“We urge people to always check the identity of anyone knocking at their door and phone the company they are representing to confirm they are legitimate.

“If you are in any doubt ask them to come back at a time when you have a chance to have someone with you.”

He also advised not to be pressured into having work carried out and to never pay cash up front or go to the bank or cash point with a trader.

The men were described as white, of a medium build and aged about 40.

One was 5ft 10in tall with black short hair, wearing blue jeans, a fleece of the same colour and brown boots.

The other man is believed to be about 5ft 6in and was wearing a baseball cap, jeans, boots and a blue fleece.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact the police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, quoting the reference number ZY/5942/18.