Handypersons and Gardeners

Carmarthenshire Trading Standards Service is reminding householders of its scheme to help them find reliable handypersons and gardeners.

The Handyperson and Gardener scheme is supported by the Community Safety Partnership, which is made up of representatives from the county council, police, fire service and other agencies.

It is part of an initiative aimed at cracking down on rogue traders and cold callers and was prompted by a series of incidents in the Llanelli area where itinerant traders were targeting elderly and vulnerable people.

The scheme allows householders to look at an approved list of handypersons and gardeners who charge a fair price for the job.

Trading Standards in conjunction with Dyfed Powys Police held an informal get together for members of its Handyperson and Gardener scheme in Cross Hands.

Tradespeople on the scheme were encouraged to report any cases of suspicious traders that they came across.

Police burglary reduction officer Brian Jones said the police supported the scheme wholeheartedly as a way of tackling rogue traders and distraction burglars.

Gardener Robert Gleaves of Ammanford said: “I have been a member of the scheme for three years and have noticed a lot more enquiries from older people.”

Handyman Chris Griffin, of Do.It.4.U, Carmarthen, said: “I think it’s a good idea and would encourage people to use the scheme. I often get called in when people have had poor workmanship. It’s better to do the job from the start.”

Alan James, of Alan’s Garden Services, Llanelli, said: “The idea of the scheme is good.”

Trading Standards Officer Vivienne Jones said: “The scheme offers something for people who want a small job done rather than something that involves a builder. Reliability is the key.”

Executive board member for public protection Cllr Pam Palmer said: “I would encourage people to use this excellent scheme as a way of finding of finding a reliable handyperson or gardener when they have jobs that need doing.”

The list of current members can be found on www.carmarthenshire.gov.uk or by contacting 01267 234567