Many householders regard doorstep salesmen, high pressure sales people and other uninvited callers as something of a nuisance. Additionally there is increasing evidence that this type of cold calling activity is associated with rogue traders, bogus tradesman, distraction burglaries, or as cover for 'sussing out' premises for later burglary. It is a particularly distasteful crime when the old and the vulnerable are targeted.

To deter these types of activity many communities throughout Somerset have established
'cold calling aware zones', the nearest to us being Curry Mallet.

What is a “Cold Calling Aware Zone?”
These are areas where the community decide they wish to take the initiative when dealing with those involved in the above.  They empower a community with the confidence to say NO to those engaged in “high pressure” sales techniques. They make those involved in criminal activity aware the community can and will challenge them and that the Police and Trading Standards Authority will follow up any complaints made.
They are not designed to prevent cold calling altogether. Legitimate callers such as charity collectors, religious and political canvassers, private/public utility representatives (all of whom should produce I.D.) will still be free to visit. Reputable organisations, generally notify the local Police that they will be cold calling and are more than happy to be challenged for identification. There are some members of the community who like the engagement.

Neighbourhood Watch, the Parish Council and Avon & Somerset Constabulary are therefore proposing to work together to establish a Cold Calling Awareness Zone for Curry Rivel.
 
What happens next?
If you want to know more about Cold Calling Aware Zones you can contact your local Policing team at www.avonandsomerset.police.uk They can explain in detail the rationale behind such zones and why they are supporting one in Curry Rivel. Or if you wish to object to the implementation of a zone within Curry Rivel, you should place your objection in writing either to CCAZ, Stoneymead, Townsend, Curry Rivel, Langport, TA10 0HW, or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by 23rd December 2011

Michael Cook, Neighbourhood Watch

Peter Goodenough, Parish Council
Sgt. Alan Bell, Avon & Somerset Constabulary