Bogus traders in Carluke use Jamie Boyle's good name

Jamie Boyle, who launched Yieldshields Valley Tree Surgeons 20 years ago, warned locals about the unqualified workers trying to trade on his good reputation.

He said: "It's very concerning and it's not the first time that my company's name has been used to try to persuade locals, especially pensioners, to give these people work.

"It really annoys me when you see them leafleting the area with various schemes to take money from folk.

"I've known quite a few people who have been duped into believing that their trees are hanging over a neighbour's garden and must be cut down straight away.

"The 'workers' then half finish the work, dump a mess in the neighbour's garden and vanish and leave a mobile telephone number, which doesn't work."

Clydesdale chief inspector Colin Murphy admitted there had been a problem with bogus callers and rogue tradesmen in Clydesdale.

He added: "Our advice to local people would be that if you are thinking about getting work done to your property seek out the labour yourself rather than employ someone who has just knocked on your door."

For more information on this story, pick up a copy of the Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.