BE wary of casual workers who knock on the door with the promise of good work at a cheap price.

This strong warning comes from Blackpool police after a terrified 82-year-old St Annes woman was nearly forced to part with £3,000 more than an original quote.

And it was only the intervention of bank counter staff which kept her savings intact after they became suspicious when she requested such a large cash withdrawal.

Two men, believed to be travellers, called at the house of the elderly resident in Haymarket, St Annes, offering to carry out roof and gutter repairs plus UPCV replacements to wooden fascia boards.

They quoted £1,300 for the job and returned next morning accompanied with three youths.

On completion of the work, the men pushed the price up to £4,500, refused a cheque and demanded cash. The frightened 82-year-old went to the bank to withdraw the money but counter staff became suspicious and alerted the police.

Officers went straight to the house to find a Ford transit van leaving at speed. This was later found abandoned and has since been confiscated. Two men escaped but three youths were arrested.

"It's highly dangerous to engage people who call at the door offering to do such work on paths, driveways, fences and roofing, etc," said Det Insp Paul Phillpott of Blackpool police.

"We strongly advise residents to choose reputable tradesmen who are listed in the Yellow Pages and also if possible to follow personal recommendations from neighbours, friends and family."

The police are appealing to people to look out for their elderly neighbours and to keep watch for any strangers in the area.

"This lady was fortunate. A lot of people aren't," added Det Insp Phillpott.