Bid to make Lewes a '˜no cold calling' zone

The campaign was started by John Lamb in a bid to protect the town’s residents from potentially fraudulent traders knocking on doors.

The petition states: “Residents of Lewes are being called on by high-pressure salespeople, opportunity burglars and dodgy traders.

“If we make Lewes a ‘no cold calling’ zone, those most at risk from these unwanted callers will have the confidence to turn them away.

“I know of elderly people who have been persuaded to part with large sums of money for unnecessary repairs or been visited by bogus meter readers.

“Please support my campaign to deliver a clear message to these rogues: you are not wanted in Lewes.”

Newton Road and Boughey Place, in Lewes, are already ‘no cold calling’ zones, but the petition calls on Lewes District Council to enforce the ban across the town.

A spokesperson from LDC said: “Lewes District Council is part of the Lewes district community safety partnership. We were unaware of this petition, but would be happy to work with partners to see how local concerns can be addressed.”

Despite launching this week, the campaign has already received support from local residents - many of whom know someone who has been caught out before.

Commenting on the petition, one signatory said: “I have seen much of the misery that these cold callers cause. My late mother was targetted by one and the whole episode left deep scars on the family.”

The Chair of Lewes Town and Rural Neighbourhood Watch Association also pledged support to the cause.

The scheme was successfully rolled out in Seaford a few years ago, making the whole town off-limits to unwanted callers.

At the time, Sussex Police’s Sergeant Stuart Mullins said: “If someone calls at your home touting for business, politely decline their services and remind them of the no cold calling zone. If they persist or you are suspicious, contact the police and we will check them out.”

‘No cold calling’ stickers can be obtained from Sussex Police and if anyone has suspicions about a caller, they are urged to call 101.

The petition can be found at www.change.org/p/lewes-town-council-turn-lewes-into-a-no-cold-calling-zone.

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