A man who was carrying two bags approached a premises in Bromsash, near Ross-on-Wye, and held up a sign saying he was deaf and wanted some money to go to college.

However, the man reportedly did not have anything to sell, which aroused suspicion and the police were called. The man then left the area.

This incident occurred at approximately 3pm yesterday (Tuesday, February 16th). The man is described as being 5’8 tall, with short dark hair and blue eyes. He also had stubble on his face, and wore dark clothing.

If you have any further information about this incident, please contact the police by calling 101, and quoting the reference: 0384-S-160216.

This incident has caused some local concern, as police in other areas of the UK have been raising awareness for "deaf artist cold callers."

Although it is not known whether the incident at Bromsash is related to the other incidents, locally, residents are reminding each other to be on their guard.

Last year, North Yorkshire Police received reports of a man, who gave his name as Lucas, who called at the homes of elderly people.

He knocked on their doors, and held up a sign, claiming he was deaf. He offered artwork for sale for between £10 and £15. However the artwork was nothing more than photocopies.

North Yorkshire Police said: "The "artists" prey on people's compassion to get them to part with their money, mainly targeting older or vulnerable people."

There have also been similar incidents reported in in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.

The police advise that residents should also take basic crime prevention measures and be on their guard against cold callers of any nature:

• Ensure you keep your front and back doors locked - even while you are at home.

• Please also be vigilant when answering your door - always use a door chain and don't let any strangers into your house.

• If you feel threatened by a caller, call the police.

• If you have any doubt about who is at your door, don't answer it.

• If you believe you have been targeted by the deaf artist, or by any other suspicious cold callers, please call the police, by calling 101.