Don't be fooled.

HOAXERS have been calling on homes claiming to be council salesmen.

They have been going around Gateshead claiming to be selling plants on behalf of the council and The Gateshead Housing Company.

They demanded money on the spot from residents in Sheriff Hill.

Martin Poulter, the company's operational support manager, said: "All of our workers, Gateshead Council employees and contractors carry identity cards, which they will always show before entering residents' homes.

"Customers should always call us, Gateshead Council or the police if they have any doubts about callers."