A DOORSTOP seller dubbed the ‘scourge’ of residents in two South Derbyshire villages has been ordered to leave both areas after an eagle-eyed policeman discovered he did not have the proper documentation.
Derbyshire Police revealed that the man had been spotted in Melbourne and Ticknall over the weekend and was targeting several homes, trying to sell cleaning products door-to-door.
Residents reported sightings of the seller at around 5.30pm in the Blackwell Lane area of Melbourne on Saturday, March 2.
As a result of these calls, the perpetrator was located and found not to have a Pedlar’s Certificate, which is required for anyone selling door-to-door.
He was advised to leave the area and to not sell goods until he had proper certification.
A further incident was reported in Ticknall area around 6.30pm, however the man ran off before officers could locate him. He left a bag of cleaning products behind.
Sergeant Steve Todd, who manages the local policing teams for this area, said:” We would like to thank residents in both areas for their vigilance and alerting their neighbourhood officers.
“It is not illegal to sell goods door to door, however, sellers must carry a police issued Pedlar’s Certificate, which shows the crest of the police force where it was issued, the name of the officer that approved it and the name and details of the seller.
“If you are in any doubt as to who is calling at your home, genuine callers will not mind waiting whilst you check or verify who they state they are.”
To report suspicious activity, people are urged to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
If people would like to contact their local Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team call 03451 233333 or email south.neighbourhoods@derbyshire.police.uk
