Residents in Powys have been urged to stay ‘alert’ when answering the door to unexpected callers, after residents reported ‘aggression’ from cold-callers.

Those living in Presteigne, Knighton and New Radnor encountered door-to-door sales people carrying backpacks, who said they were ex-offenders, and offered to sell household items such as tea towels, oven mitts, gardening tools, and knives.

One resident said that the sales person became ‘aggressive’ when they refused to buy anything. Another resident claimed that the seller told them they ‘hoped I’d burn to death’. Some concerns were raised that the group was scoping out areas for future burglaries.

Dyfed-Powys Police were called and made aware of the situation. Speaking to The Brecon and Radnor Express, a spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received reports of door-to-door salespeople operating in the Presteigne, Knighton and New Radnor areas of Powys at around 12pm yesterday, Tuesday 10 June. Officers made contact with one of the salesmen and provided suitable words of advice.

“Residents are reminded to be alert when they answer the door to unexpected callers, to always ask for identification and look up the organisation to check the person’s identity. More information about unwanted calls or visits can be found on our website: Annoying phone calls or unwanted visits | Dyfed-Powys Police

“Anyone with concerns about suspicious behaviour is asked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police, either online at https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/, by emailing [email protected], or calling 101. Always phone 999 in an emergency.”