THREE people have been arrested on the outskirts of York after allegedly scamming money out of vulnerable people for work that did not need doing.

A North Yorkshire Police officer tweeted yesterday morning to say bogus tradesmen were visiting homes in the Dunnington area, claiming to be from a company called 'Everest Home Improvements'.

Sergeant Paul Cording, of North Yorkshire Police, later announced on Twitter that three people had been arrested.

He tweeted: "Three suspects under arrest on the outskirts of York after allegedly scamming money out of vulnerable people for work that didn’t need doing."

A van was also seized and trading standards have been informed.

The three men were from Lancashire - two were aged 47 and 46 from Bury, and the other was 38 from Blackburn - and were arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation. All three were later released on conditional while police and trading standards officials carry out enquiries into this and other possible linked incidents in the area.

Inspector Lee Pointon urged residents to lock their doors and refuse to answer if unsure of the caller, to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.

Insp Pointon said: "Rogue traders are callous criminals who take advantage of householders by using high-pressure sales techniques. The work carried out is often sub-standard or not required at all. I have seen seen first-hand the devastating impact that such criminals can have on their victims, who are often elderly or vulnerable.

"To effectively tackle this issue, it is vital that there is increased awareness in neighbourhoods and for residents to quickly report suspicious individuals or vehicles to the police on 101 for non-emergencies. Remember, always dial 999 if you feel threatened and an urgent response is required."

Anyone who has experienced similar suspicious behaviour should phone 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111, quoting reference 12180020756.