ROGUE traders claiming to be council staff have scammed the elderly and vulnerable out of up to £300 per visit by charging for cutting back trees.

Men wearing fake ID approached residents in three separate incidents, claiming they were from the council.

The residents had not requested tree work but were told it had to be done and charged £200-£300. In two of the instances the men were paid.

East Dorset council is warning residents to be aware of rogue traders claiming to be tree surgeons working on the council's behalf.

Senior arboricultural officer Jonathan Astill said: "No one from the council would arrive unannounced and charge for work. If you're unsure about someone, contact the council."

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "Residents should always be aware of uninvited callers offering goods or services.

"If there is any doubt they should always seek ID. Legitimate callers will always wait it is checked. If still in doubt contact local police."

Police advice includes using a door chain when answering, not keeping cash in the home, and always keeping front and back doors locked.

If residents have a tree on their property it is their responsibility to maintain it. However, the tree may be subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO), in which case formal consent from the council is required before undertaking any work.

A list of registered tree surgeons is available from the Arboricultural Association at the website trees.org.uk or on 01794 368717.

For further advice, contact East Dorset District Council's Tree Section on 01202 886201.