Bexley Council is warning residents of rogue traders operating in the borough after an 82-year-old woman was almost scammed out of thousands of pounds for a single hedge trim.

The pensioner was reportedly driven to the bank by the conmen to withdraw £4,500 after being told that if she paid cash she wouldn’t be charged VAT.

This was for one hour's work carried out by one man trimming a hedge.

However, the lady's bank quickly spotted the irregularity and no money was exchanged.

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The council has now issued a warning as several similar incidents have been reported to Bexley Trading Standards in recent weeks.

The con artists seemingly offer tree cutting services at bargain prices but then charge large amounts of money to remove the chippings or charge a monstrous price but do very little of the work for which they’ve quoted.

Bexley's cabinet member for places, Cllr Peter Craske said: "As we move into spring, when residents start thinking about doing work to their homes and gardens, we need to be vigilant.

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"These scammers have been knocking on doors and leafleting residents across the borough to get business.

"Trading Standards have been passed some of the leaflets containing false business names and addresses which were left by rogue traders.

"We advise residents not to respond to any leaflet drops, or to deal with traders on the doorstep for any goods or services.

"A good way of finding reputable traders is to use Bexley's What Tradesman?"

Those looking to have landscaping works carried out at their home are encouraged to always get a written quote first and never pay anything up front.