People have been told to watch out for cold callers on the prowl.

Kent County Council's public protection department says it has received reports of people turning up on doorsteps in Snodland this week.

A spokesman said: "Sometimes called duster sellers or Nottingham Knockers these cold callers will give you a sob story and try to sell you overpriced household items, such as dusters.

"Their stories include being an ex-offender on a rehabilitation scheme. The Probation Service says it would never send an ex-offender to knock on doors."

KCC advises people never to deal with cold callers and avoid even opening the door to them.

Family and friends should also be warned.

Suspicious cold callers should be reported to police on 101 and if they are aggressive or refuse to leave householders should dial 999.

For advice contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.