POLICE are warning people in the Aberystwyth and Machynlleth area to be vigilant after reports of a man going door to door claiming to be deaf and selling artwork.

The cold caller knocks at doors holding a card which claims he is deaf and asks the occupier to buy paintings.

But police have warned homeowners and relatives of vulnerable people to be extra vigilant after they received three calls from people in Machynlleth and Aberystwyth related to such incidents.

The man has also been spotted doing the rounds in Penrhyncoch.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Bogus callers prey on the most vulnerable people in our communities, attempting to con them out of vast amounts of money for unnecessary and overpriced work.

“Sometimes they pretend to be from reputable companies and sometimes they resort to distraction tactics.

“Cold callers will phone or knock your door unannounced and try to sell you a product or service. Many are genuine but some can be scams.”

And Sgt Alyn Bennett, of Aberystwyth Police station, said: “Unfortunately not everyone who knocks unannounced at your door has a genuine reason for being there.

“Bogus callers are criminals and we encourage residents to beware and know what to do if they do receive a visit from a bogus caller with making sure you ask for ID a priority, along with fitting and using a door chain. If in doubt, keep them out.”

Call 101 to report a suspected bogus caller or rogue trader. Call 999 if they become aggressive or to report a distraction burglary.

For more advice on protecting yourself and your home from bogus callers visit www.dyfed-powys.police.uk or call 101.