Richmond residents can send a "clear message" to cold callers with the help of an initiative being rolled out across the borough.

Residents, particularly those who are vulnerable, are being offered a free sticker which they can display at their front door that warns doorstep traders to stay away.

The scheme is being offered by the council in conjunction with the local police and the stickers are specifically for older or vulnerable residents who often find themselves a target to illegal doorstep tradesmen.

They are designed to tell uninvited traders that residents do not buy and sell at the door and they need no free advice.

In addition, the notice makes clear that any traders who ignore the message will be reported to the police.

The double-sided window sticker will also contain advice for the homeowner, reminding them not to open the door unless they know who is there and to make sure that the door chain is in place.

They are also reminded to check the identity cards of expected tradespeople.

Councillor Mark Boyle, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Residents often find high-pressure doorstep sellers intimidating and can end up parting with cash which they had no intention of handing over.

"Many people don’t want uninvited callers visiting their home, and in some cases cold callers can use their activity as a cover for committing crime.

“These new stickers will send a clear message to cold callers, and they are a powerful tool in the armoury of residents who are tired of being disturbed and want to say no to cold callers.”

Sergeant Les Jackson, Richmond police, said: “Richmond police have arranged many crime prevention seminars to inform elderly residents of the scams that can be generated from cold calling.

“These stickers are a valuable tool and compliments the work all partners and agencies are doing by working together to combat this type of crime.

“Please do not be intimidated by cold callers should they call at your house and the advice is, if you do not know the person calling then do not open the door or engage in conversation.

“If you feel it is necessary to contact the police then do so.

Stickers are available from Safer Neighbourhood Teams across the borough.

To find the contact details of your local team, please visit: https://www.police.uk/ and type in your postcode in the Neighbourhood Search.