ELDERLY residents in Suffolk are today being warned about traders who use dubious tactics to sell mobility aids.Suffolk Trading Standards said some companies initially phoned customers giving the impression they were from social services or occupational therapy.

ELDERLY residents in Suffolk are today being warned about traders who use dubious tactics to sell mobility aids.

Suffolk Trading Standards said some companies initially phoned customers giving the impression they were from social services or occupational therapy.

A sales representative would then call round the house and try to sell “expensive and often unnecessary” items.

In one case, an 81-year-old woman agreed to an appointment after receiving persistent telephone calls from a person offering to discuss mobility allowances.

The salesman then spent several hours in her home trying to sell products to her. Fortunately, the woman did not part with any cash.

Residents are urged to contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 if they have any problems or have had an appointment.

Trading Standards has offered the following advice:

Only make appointments which you genuinely want.

Don't be taken in by someone who offers to discuss your mobility allowance information - this can be obtained from your council.

Should you buy goods or services in your home, make sure you understand what is being signed.

Legislation means you have a longer cooling-off period to re-consider your decision.