People are being targeted in a rising number of “nasty scams and high pressure sales”, one Malmesbury neighbourhood organiser has warned.

Ellen Blacker, of the town’s Good Neighbours project, said she wanted to highlight the cons and dubious tactics being used on vulnerable people.

The actions of some tricksters reported to her were immoral if not actually illegal, she added.

Ms Blacker is one of 22 Good Neighbourhood Co-ordinators in Wiltshire, using local knowledge and networks to connect with the most disadvantaged, vulnerable or isolated people.

Con artists’ behaviour ranged from computer frauds and cowboy building work to law firms promising the prospect of compensation pay-outs.

She said: “There have been a few nasty scams going around.”

One man was phoned and told his bank account was being hacked into via the internet.

“He was advised he needed to act quickly and, trustingly, our gent gave his bank details over. Sadly, the caller took these details and several thousand pounds from the account.

“It is really easy to be sucked into these conversations and to believe what they say. But they are successful because they are expert liars.”

She urged people to ask callers to put requests in writing and never give bank details by phone.

One former factory worker was promised a free hearing test, with the chance of gaining compensation; but was later told she would have to pursue the issue through the courts using the law firm that had contacted her.

“It is high-pressure selling,” said Ms Blacker.

Another recent incident involved traders promising to complete work to a certain timescale.

However, the job should have been finished by mid-August and was not wound up until early December, creating anguish for the customer. Meanwhile, the firm had undertaken other jobs elsewhere.

“Always try to get references,” said Ms Blacker, who can be emailed at malmesburygnc@communityfirst.org.uk