ALMOST 100 complaints were made about scammers in County Durham last year.

Durham County Council says there has been an increase in complaints about doorstep crime and investigations concerning home improvements, roofing, driveways and conservatory extensions.

It is supporting a national campaign to target scams and offer advice to help people avoid being duped.

The authority said it received more than 94 complaints last year and had prosecuted a number of cheat traders in County Durham, including a roofing business and internet fraud.

Consumer and protection manager Owen Cleugh said: “The reporting of scams is severely underreported with many victims feeling too embarrassed to report being a victim to their family, the police or trading standards.

“We want to help people, firstly, avoid scams by prosecuting scammers and ensuring the public are well informed, but also help those who are victims of scams to not feel isolated or powerless.”