Some villagers may have been approached by young men selling cleaning utensils in a haversack (Usually claiming they have been in prison for assault). It has happened to me. I have had two separate visits over the last few weeks. Both young men put me under pressure to buy something. The first one, a few weeks ago, harassed me and became aggressive when I would not buy something because he did not have any ID. The second one produced an ID document which I found was forged, after I called the police.

I realised, now, how ignorant I was not knowing the law on pedlars. I have therefore done a little homework. I find they must have a pedlar’s certificate from the police. (See copy below).

If you wish to know more here are a couple of links to read;

https://www.police.uk/forms/pedlars-certificate/

https://www.northumbria.police.uk/news_and_events/latest_news/2018/02/13/do_you_know_who_youre_opening_your_door_to/

Richard Hewitt