PEOPLE living in the Lewes area are being warned to be on their guard for rogue callers offering cheap driveway improvements.

Residents have this week reported being visited by individuals claiming to be in possession of surplus asphalt left over from work by East Sussex County Council.

The callers have visited addresses in the Lewes and Ouse Valley areas this week offering a ‘half price’ deal to resurface driveways.

The county council’s Trading Standards team is warning people that the callers have no connection to the council and urging them not to hand over their cash.

Lucy Corrie, East Sussex County Council head of communities, responsible for Trading Standards, said: “We should be very clear that these callers have no connection with the council.

“We don’t sell on our asphalt to anyone and any left over from roadworks is used to fix potholes across the county.

“People should not hand over money to these callers and if they do receive a visit, we’d ask them to report it so we can investigate.

“I’d urge residents to be extremely wary of any doorstep caller, not to allow themselves to be pressured into agreeing work and instead to take their time, do their research and ensure they’re taking on a reputable trader.”

Anyone who has information about a suspicious cold caller is asked to call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 040506.

People who want to deter cold callers can obtain a free  door sticker  which they can display at their front door warning doorstep traders to stay away, which is available by calling the same number.