MOTORHOME and campervan owners are being asked to be on their guard by police.

As previously reported by The Press people with campervans and motorhomes in York, Selby and Malton are being targetted by group of people cold calling and claiming to want to buy them even though they are not for sale.

Now police say there's been a further report of similar activity in the Hawes area of Richmondshire, suggesting that those responsible may now be targeting other areas.

On April 19, the owner of a motorhome was loading it in a car park when a vehicle pulled up. The driver of this vehicle asked if he could buy the motorhome. When the owner declined, the vehicle left.

Officers are concerned that this ongoing activity could be linked to criminality, and are urging all owners of motorhomes in North Yorkshire and York to be vigilant and check the security of their vehicles.

Inspector Clive Turner, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force, said: “Please remember, you aren’t obliged to buy anything from or sell anything to doorstep callers. Rogue traders often try to take advantage of householders by using high-pressure sales techniques, or may even be looking for opportunities to steal vehicles or property.

“It’s clear that a group of people are deliberately visiting homes in North Yorkshire with campervans parked outside, so it’s extremely important that if you own one, you double-check your security measures.

“In many cases, we have been able to respond to reports of suspicious activity by increasing patrols and visiting homes to gather evidence and provide crime prevention advice – so those responsible will find it increasingly difficult to target vehicles in our area.

“I’d urge everyone to remain vigilant, and follow our security advice. And if you are aware of suspicious activity, such as people appearing to take an interest in parked campervans or other high-value vehicles, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101.”