Rogue traders warning after Storm Éowyn damage

North Yorkshire Council said around 80 trees blocked highways during Storm Éowyn

North Yorkshire residents have been warned not to be taken in by rogue traders hoping to profit from damage caused by Storm Éowyn.

Trading standards officers at North Yorkshire Council said householders and business owners should not agree to work from roofers and other tradespeople who knocked on their doors uninvited.

The authority advised people facing damage to get recommendations from friends or family and ask for at least three quotes.

Winds of almost 80mph (128km/h) battered Yorkshire on Friday, as Storm Éowyn downed trees and brought travel disruption to the region.

In Poppleton, near York, a 70ft (21m) tree was blown onto a main road

North Yorkshire Council received around 80 reports of trees blocking highways, while around 3,000 properties were left without power during the strong winds.

Councillor Greg White, executive member for trading standards, said many rogue traders would seek to take advantage after a storm.

He said: "Officers have found cases in the past where tactics have included carrying loose tiles around to convince householders their roof has been damaged.

"If someone knocks at your door and tells you your house needs repairs or maintenance of any kind, you need to be suspicious and close your door."

The council said people could use the government's Trustmark scheme to identify reliable tradespeople, and get advice from the authority's website where people should also report rogue traders.

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