Thames Valley Police are alerting the public after receiving reports about ‘Nottingham Knockers’ circulating in Oxfordshire.

People living in Woodstock have been asked to remain alert following incidents involving these door-to-door traders.

The nickname refers to groups, frequently young men, who visit homes offering inexpensive household goods including cleaning supplies, sponges and dusters.

Although their business practices may not always breach the law, authorities have connected such activities to distraction burglaries, dishonest trading and criminals who survey residences for potential future offences.

Residents are being counseled to refrain from interaction with unfamiliar visitors and should not permit them entry inside their properties.

Special worry exists for those more at risk, especially older individuals, who could be targeted by such tactics.

Individuals who observe questionable behaviour should contact law enforcement via 101. For urgent situations, dial 999.