A WARNING has been given to residents after an elderly woman was stopped by 'Nottingham knockers' during her walk.

The Public Protection Partnership (PPP) - who deal with fraud incidents in West Berkshire, Wokingham and Bracknell Forest - have warned residents about the ordeal.

On Wednesday, March 31, a woman was out walking in Hungerford, West Berkshire when she was stopped by a group of people on bikes.

The PPP believe they could possibly be Nottingham Knockers.

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They told her they were just out of prison and selling some items.

They explained how half of the money from the sales would go to charity and the remaining half would support the work they do.

She was then asked for her bank details and address but refused to give them this. She did however purchase various items for a substantial amount of money.

Who are Nottingham Knockers?

Police describe them as 'doorstep callers who offer a selection of household products for sale.

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The scam is believed to have originated in Nottingham, hence the name.

How does the scam work?

The scammer buys a bag of goods off the person who employs them, and are allowed to keep anything they make above this price.

Callers offer householders the goods, at inflated prices, but often use the sale as a ruse for checking out a person's home and gullibility.

Many people will buy something and pay them just to get rid of them, but once the money has been handed over, the scam can really begin.

Once the caller gets the money - most often a value that comes to a note - it is examined.If you have elderly friends, relatives, or neighbours, it's important to keep a lookout for them too and report any suspicious activity to police.

The PPP said the incident has been reported to the police.

A spokesman from the PPP said: "If you are approached in this manner whilst you are out, or if they come to your door, please do not buy from them. If you feel threatened in any way call the police immediately.

"You can report incidents such as this to: The Citizens Advice Consumer Service online via their online reporting form or telephone: 03454 04 05 06 - all these reports are forwarded to us at Trading Standards."