Three suspected doorstep conmen have been arrested in Ipswich after residents at two addresses reported rogue traders calling on them.

Police have said Suffolk Trading Standards officers are also investigating possible links to a string of other similar incidents in the county.

The men were detained following incidents in Gleneagles Drive, near Rushmere Golf Course.

Karen Willie, a spokeswoman for Suffolk Constabulary, said: “Police and trading standards officers were called by one of the victims who reported that a group of men had called at their home offering to carry out roof and chimney repairs.

“Once on the roof the men purported to find damaged tiles and a defective chimney stack then demanded a large amount of cash from the victim to complete the work.

“The men left the address in a van once they realised that the victim had become suspicious and was reporting the incident.

“Two men aged 19 and 21, both from Basildon, and another man, aged 29 from Purleigh, were arrested for fraud by false representation and failing to provide cancellation information offences.

“The two men from Brentwood were also arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and assault charges.

“The men have been released on bail until June, pending further inquiries.

The incident which provoked the call to police was made at around 1pm on April 19.

Trading Standards are now investigating links to other reported incidents of rogue trading in the county.

Officers are warning residents to be alert and to get several quotes from reputable companies before you agree to have any work completed.

Anyone who may have information should telephone Citizens Advice consumer service line on 03454 04 05 06.

Residents seeking reputable companies can access The Suffolk Trader Scheme which promotes the use of Checkatrade’s directory of local tradesmen who have been verified by Suffolk Trading Standards and are committed to treating their customers fairly.

For further advice please see www.suffolk.gov.uk/community-and-safety/trading-standards-for-consumers/what-is-the-suffolk-trader-scheme/