Authorities have warned people in Suffolk to beware of dishonest salesman after a shopper was convinced into buying a useless generator.

Suffolk Trading Standards said there had been various reports of a man approaching individuals in supermarket car parks and attempting to sell them machinery – specifically, generators.

One Suffolk resident was convinced to withdraw £400 from a cash machine for a generator, which turned out to be ineffective.

A spokesman said: “Reports suggest there may be a gang of individuals targeting Suffolk.

“The gentlemen are described as having an Irish accent and are driving a blue, a white and a silver transit style van.

“Our advise is not to deal with them, and to call us on 03454 040506, or Suffolk police on 101.”

Trading Standards said door-to-door fish sellers and Nottingham Knockers had also been reported across the county in the last week or so.