NORTH Wales Police and Trading Standards have launched a joint protocol for dealing with rogue traders and distraction burglars.

The protocol, which has been lead by the Community Safety Partnership in Wrexham and Flintshire, outlines new working arrangements ensuring all reports of rogue traders and distraction burglars are investigated jointly between North Wales Police and Trading Standards from the moment they are first reported.

Inspector Paul Firth from the Eastern Division’s Community Safety and Cohesion Department said: “The message we want to put out is that we are taking this problem seriously.

“This type of crime is typically targeted at older and vulnerable people, often those who live alone. Because this type of crime occurs in the home, it can have a lasting effect on a person and goes way beyond the loss of any money or property.”

Anyone wishing to report suspicious behaviour in their area is urged to contact North Wales Police on 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) or 0845 607 1002 (English line).