Householders are being warned to be vigilant amid reports of cold callers operating in the east Suffolk area.

Police have issued the warning after a man called at a home in the Lowestoft area informing the householder they had "something wrong with their roof".

The cold caller then went onto the roof, where they are believed to have caused damage, before telling the householder that £800 of repair works was required.

It happened around 10.30am on Tuesday, July 30, at a home in Cranesbill Road, Pakefield.

A "similar incident" was reported in Honeysuckle Close, also in Pakefield.

A Suffolk police spokesman said: "An unknown male attended an address in Cranesbill Road and stated to the owner there was something wrong with their roof.

"The man accessed the roof, and the homeowner heard banging sounds.

"The man has then said the 'work' would cost £800.

"The homeowner believes the male caller has caused the damage.

"No money was paid."

The cold caller is described as being a man, about 50 to 60-years-old, bald with a large stomach and wearing a chequered shirt.

The police spokesman added: "A similar incident in Honeysuckle Close was mentioned by the reporting person."

Officers urged homeowners to "always be on your guard" against cold callers and doorstep traders.

The police spokesman added: "Rogue traders trick people, often by pretending to be builders and charging very high prices for unnecessary or shoddy work.

"If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

"They will often call without an appointment which is known as 'cold calling'.

"Do not accept work from unsolicited enquiries and report any suspicious activity."

If you witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area during these times, or if you have any security camera systems that may have captured any images, please contact Suffolk police quoting crime reference number 37/42923/24 via 101.

For further security advice visit the Suffolk Trading Standards website.