Warning over bogus tarmac gang

Warning over bogus tarmac gang

Residents in Harrogate are being warned about a gang of bogus tradesmen operating in the area.

Trading standards officers say the men are giving quotes to resurface people's drives and then ripping them off.

The gang claim to be part of the borough council's highway department and are targeting elderly people

Stuart Pudney, head of trading standards, said: "The gang has threatened violence to older people and their families.

Police investigation

"They have also threatened damage to property".

He added that the quality of the work is sub-standard, done at an inflated price, and does not represent value for money.

He advised people to always get three written quotes from reputable tradesmen before agreeing to any work.

Police are now investigating the gang's activities.