Nottingham Knockers. It's a phrase we see posted in neighbourhood Facebook groups regularly.

Police often urge residents to exercise caution if 'Nottingham Knockers' come to the door.

But despite seeing the term used more and more, many of us are still unsure what it means exactly.

What are Nottingham Knockers?

Typically, police forces have been describing Nottingham Knockers as door-to-door traders, selling you goods on your doorstep, often for over-inflated prices.

These will often be cheap household items they're trying to sell you, with some of the sellers claiming to be on a rehabilitation scheme and trying to find work.

Often they may have a false ID or trading permit.

It is important to say that Nottingham Knockers are not part of any officially recognised rehabilitation scheme.

Why should we be careful?

Well, while it may seem harmless to buy a duster or similar from someone claiming to be trying to make a living, it could lead to further issues.

Nottingham Knockers have been known to cover a number of streets looking for a vulnerable victim they can scam.

And in some cases, streets being targeted by Nottingham Knockers, have seen an increase in distraction burglaries.

It could also lead to vulnerable residents being targeted by other scammers, including rogue builders and other groups.

Report any concerns you have to the police on 101.

How do we check?

If you have a visit from someone you suspect to be a Nottingham Knocker, you should ask to check the ID and confirm whether they have a current pedlars licence issued by the police.

It is also worth knowing the government-backed Community Payback scheme does not involve door-to-door sales. So if you're unsure about any paperwork you're presented with, then best be safe and refuse.

What else can we do?

Contact your local trading standards office - they often have free stickers you can place in your door or window saying no doorstep traders. Or you could just make your own.

In having one of these stickers, any trader that ignores a sticker or notice on your door stating that you do not wish to receive cold calls may be committing a criminal offence.