LOCAL people have been warned to steer clear of a number of 'cowboy' builders who are currently active in the region.

Trading Standards claim a number of people have paid door-to-door " builders money for building repairs, roofing and driveways but often the tradesmen leave without completing the job satisfactorily.

Residents are advised to only deal with reputable traders who have fixed premises, to get written quotations and not to pay up front for materials.

A spokesman said: "Simply having a van with a mobile phone number or logo on the side doors does not guarantee a good job.

For more details call the advice line 0845 600 1352.

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