Published at 17:33, Monday, 12 November 2012

By Richard MachinTRADING Standards officials and Cumbria police have been working with residents in Grange to introduce a no cold calling zone following reports of an increase in callers operating in the area.

The latest NCCZ in the area is set to be launched in Kents Bank, Grange, on Wednesday during National Consumer Week.

The aim of the zone is to place power in the residents’ hands, particularly the elderly, giving them the confidence to say “no” to bogus callers and rogue traders, bogus officials and thieves.

The zone is identified by signs at each entrance to Priory Lane, which give a clear signal to rogue traders that they are visiting an area where they are not welcome and where householders will not buy on the doorstep.

There is a telephone number to call to alert Trading Standards if cold callers enter the zone.

Following the introduction of similar zones across Cumbria, 91 per cent of residents in a no cold calling zone said they felt safer in their home and 81 per cent have more confidence in dealing with cold callers.

Cumbria county councillor Gary Strong, cabinet member responsible for community safety and local services, said: “Some people may find cold callers intimidating or intrusive, particularly older or more vulnerable residents. This zone will help people feel safer in their homes and will deter rogue traders from operating in the area.”

Angela Jones, Cumbria Trading Standards manager, said: “This is the first no cold calling zone in Grange but other zones across the county have been proven successful.’’

Priory Lane resident Brenda Warburton said: “I am delighted to learn that Trading Standards are supporting a no cold calling zone.

“This will give residents who do not feel confident in rejecting unwanted nuisance callers much needed protection and peace of mind.”

Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk