Doorstep sellers pedalling substandard alarm systems in Chelmsford are the subject of a police investigation.

Police have had over a dozen reports in the last two weeks of people trying to sell alarm systems over the doorstep.

Chelmsford crime reduction officer Kathy Payne urged residents not to buy from anyone who knocks on the door.

"These people often come into your home and they may be giving it a once over, after all they could be anybody.

"If you are buying an alarm, don't buy it from a doorstep seller and make sure it carries industry approval," she said.

Published Tuesday August 3, 2004