COWBOY traders and salesmen could be in for a shock after their unscrupulous practices were captured on camera in the region's very own House of Horrors.

In a similar operation to the popular TV show, trading standards chiefs uncovered a string of dishonest methods employed by workers to rip off customers.

The covert recording at a secret location found workers trying to con hundreds of pounds out of what they believed were gullible consumers.

Stuart Pudney, head of trading standards in North Yorkshire, said: "Many householders are very vulnerable when they either invite salesmen into their home or tradesmen to repair a domestic appliance.

"Consumers with little ability to check on what they are being told have to take people at face value and it is a cause for concern that in doing so they could be ripped off."

The operation revealed:

l The supply of a three-piece suite that did not contain fire retardant foam and coverings

l Repair to a gas cooker that was unnecessary, incurring an overcharge of £72

l A fridge where a new thermostat was fitted, when the temperature dial on the fridge had simply been turned down, costing the consumer £68

l A hand-delivered pizza that was falsely described as containing Mozzarella cheese, when in fact it contained a cheap cheese substitute and scampi that turned out to be reformed minced shellfish.

Mr Pudney said: "This survey of salesmen and domestic repairers provided mixed results. It was pleasing to see that the majority of traders are highly trustworthy and offer a good value for money service.

"However, there are a number of bad apples in the barrel.

"This service will target those unscrupulous traders who either serve consumers badly through their own incompetence or who purposefully set out to con people.

"By doing this we hope to protect consumers, give them the confidence to trust local traders and to help the many honest and trustworthy traders and salesmen to flourish."