Dozens of people have been scammed by fake traders who offer to clean driveways and roofs for extortionate prices.

Sussex Police received 18 reports in the Worthing area and six around Arun and Bognor where people were scammed.

The force said people were being charged excessive amounts of money for the work.

A force spokeswoman said: “If you have any information, or if this has happened to you, contact Sussex Police online or call 101.

“Make sure that the companies you are using are legitimate here Find a trader and check you can trust them - Citizens Advice.”

Last month, Trading Standards and Sussex Police put out a warning about people cleaning a small section of a roof or driveway in Worthing without the owner's permission then pressuring them into paying to complete the job.

A Neighbourhood Watch alert said water from fire hydrants was being used to do the illicit works.