HOMEOWNERS are being warned about a rogue tarmac gang that is operating in the south of the county.

Herefordshire Council and West Mercia Police are warning people in rural areas, especially near Ross-on-Wye, to be wary of the cold callers who say they are working on the roads and have some tarmac left over at a discounted price which they can use to tarmac the homeowner’s drive.

The council say the group is carrying out expensive, poor quality work and can be intimidating over payments.

Herefordshire Council’s head of consumer and business protection, Mike Pigrem, said: "The safest way is never to deal with anyone who cold calls whether in person or by phone, as virtually all rogue trading is operated in this way.

“This type of tarmacking scam has been around for some time and these types of gangs will target specific local areas at random – always be on your guard.

“If you need any property repairs then we advise consulting the council’s trader register at www.traderregister.org/herefordshire “