A DOOR-KNOCKING nuisance has been harassing pensioners during 18 months of early-morning torment.

Targeting bungalows, the mystery caller bangs loudly on doors and windows three times before running off.

Residents in Cotswold Drive, Skelton, east Cleveland, too frightened to be identified, say they have been woken up at various times throughout the night, sometimes as early as 3.15am.

Some of the properties are privately owned and some are rented from the Coast and Country organisation.

A 75-year-old woman was so scared when it happened to her that she slept at her daughter's home for four nights.

Another woman in her 70s said: "It could be someone going to or from work early, but we just don't know."

Redcar and Cleveland councillor Helen McLuckie said: "This is disgraceful behaviour. It is an absolutely senseless act. Someone must know what is going on."

Residents have been advis-ed to keep a note of when the knocker strikes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on (01642) 326326.