CIVIC leaders and police joined forces last week to launch a crackdown on bogus callers.

The Derwentside Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership is touring the district to give presentations to elderly and vulnerable residents aimed at tackling distraction burglary.

The first event took place in Stanley Court, Stanley, launched by Chief Supt Ian Irwin, Divisional Commander of Derwentside Police and Coun Alex Watson, Leader of Derwentside District Council.

The district has the lowest incidence of distraction burglary in County Durham.

Tom Clifford, community safety officer, said: "Distraction burglary, also known as bogus caller crime, has a terrible and disproportionate effect upon its victims, who are often some of the oldest and most vulnerable members of our community.

"Derwentside has the lowest level of such crimes in the Durham force. However, one such incident is one too many and each one increases significantly the fear of crime.

"When victims subsequently realise that their life savings, family heirlooms or other valued items have been stolen, they often experience a substantial breakdown in health, preventing them from continuing to live an independent life in the community."