Rogue traders have targeted families in the Cambridge area claiming they are from reputable garden centres.

A warning has been issued Cambridgeshire County Council’s Trading Standards and police for residents to beware of con artists offering tree and gardening services on behalf of the centres when there is no connection with these businesses.

The rogues have been leafleting residents, using the garden centre trading names on the flyers and providing false trading addresses.

Nikki Pasek, head of Trading Standards, said: “Whilst there are a wide range of reputable, honest garden services operating in the county, unfortunately it continues to be a sector favoured by rogue traders. These rogues tend to find work by calling door to door and leafleting.

“We would advise against using a trader who calls at your door. If you want to use one of the gardening services operated by a particular garden centre, contact that garden centre direct for details. Alternatively, use a gardener or handyman on our Buy with Confidence approved trader scheme www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk, or go on recommendation from a friend or neighbour.

“We would suggest that in every case you get more than one quote to ensure the price is reasonable, and ensure quotes are given in writing outlining exactly what work is included for the price. If you are at home when you agree to have the work done and it costs more than £35 you should also make sure you are given a written notice of your right to cancel within seven days.

"If the work starts before the expiry of those seven days, you should be asked to sign a consent form acknowledging that if you cancel, you will need to pay for any work done up to that point.”