Gardaí have issued a warning about cold callers after an elderly woman was pressured into buying 12 chainsaws.

The woman, who lives alone near Bantry, Cork, was visited recently by bogus traders who forced her to pay an "extortionate" price for the items. She also purchased 11 generators, seven power washers, and an assortment of other tools "... that she had no use for and did not want." The woman paid using several cheques, most of which were cancelled before they could be cashed. Gardaí are currently investigating the incident and have warned others about cold callers and cash payments. "If a person calls to your door offering you professional trade services or selling goods and you are worried they are not bona fide, tell the caller that you never employ trades people or buy goods from people who ‘cold call’ to your door," a statement read. "Ask for a brochure or documentation so you can carry out checks and verify their credibility. "Never engage a person who insists on a cash payment as it is untraceable. Neve leave strangers, even bona fide workers, unsupervised in your home." Gardaí are asking for anybody who has had a similar experience with cold callers or bogus tradespeople to contact any Garda station.