A government organisation has issued an alert to check on the elderly and vulnerable in the wake of Storm Bert.

After strong winds and heavy rainfall hit the county this weekend, Norfolk County Council Trading Standards called on people to check the properties of their elderly and vulnerable neighbours and loved ones for damage.

The organisation said it was also worth reminding them to be cautious of traders going door-to-door offering to undertake garden and building maintenance.

A spokesman for Norfolk Trading Standards said: "Rogue traders trick people into paying very high prices for unnecessary or shoddy work primarily on homes or garden maintenance.

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"Reports of rogue traders, cowboy builders and doorstep callers are unfortunately still a concern for Trading Standards.

"These cons can involve many thousands of pounds and often target vulnerable residents."

To avoid becoming a victim, never agree to have work done by somebody who is just passing and never pay for work before it is completed.

If work is needed, people are advised to seek recommendations from friends and family or to visit the Norfolk Trusted Traded directory.

Locals concerned about doorstep callers operating in their area can contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.