CUMBRIA Trading Standards and Cumbria Police are advising Hawcoat residents to be on their guard against cold callers offering to buy gold, silver, antiques and other items.

Reports have been received from the Hawcoat area of Barrow of an individual leaflet dropping then calling back later to collect items.

It is understood that older and more vulnerable residents may have been targeted.

Trading Standards' advice is never to deal with cold callers.

Anyone who has been approached by these sellers or has any information is asked to contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or Cumbria Police on 101.