RESIDENTS of Malvern are being warned by police about doorstep salesmen or so-called Nottingham knockers in the town.

The police have received several reports about the salesmen in the town.

They large holdalls containing cleaning items, which they offer for sale, and some residents are reporting that if they decline to purchase any goods, they use intimidating high-pressure selling techniques.

A spokesman said: "If any sales person comes to your door selling any products, do not be persuaded to part with money for products you don't need or are of poor quality.

"Residents are also advised to use precautionary measures such as a door chain and to ignore callers if they are unsure who it may be."

Anyone selling products door-to-door is required to have a valid pedlar's certificate; a card with the person's name and photograph is not sufficient.

If in doubt, do not answer the door and report sightings to the non-emergency police line on 101.