TRADING Standards staff in Bury, who are determined to stop "cowboy" builders, have issued a warning to people planning to have work done on their homes or gardens this summer.

The call comes as the council service continues to receive an increasing number of complaints, often from elderly people, who have been conned.

Advice to householders includes: ask for a written quotation on proper headed paper showing an address and telephone number; get at least two other quotations for the work and do not be bullied into any agreement; choose a contractor who is a member of a professional trade association; try to avoid paying money in advance of work being started; get a completion date before any work is started.

Advice is available at Textile Hall in Manchester Road, Bury, or on 0161 253 5566.