TWELVE new "Cold Calling Controlled Zones" have been launched in York to help in the fight against scammers.

The new designations mean residents have agreed not to deal with cold callers and to report anyone breaching the zones to the police or trading standards.

City of York's Cllr Nigel Ayre said Trading Standards Officers often hear of cold callers at work with some residents feeling pressurised into parting with vast sums of money for unnecessary and shoddy products.

“We know that crimes of this nature are under-reported, and so we urge anyone with concerns or information to get in touch by contacting the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline on 03454 040506,” he added.

The new zones mean 8,500 households across the city are now protected. They include parts of Copmanthorpe, Huntington and New Earswick and streets covered are: Tadcaster Road, Temple Lane, Manor Heath, Brandsby Grove, North Moor Gardens, Pennine Close, Brockfield Park Drive, Orchards Garden, Heather Croft, Beech Glade, Kestrel Wood Way and Geldof Road.