UNSCRUPULOUS burglar alarm salesmen are targeting residents in part of County Durham.

Derwentside police have been carrying out crime prevention work through Operation Darc, which aims to cut the number of winter burglaries, as thieves take advantage of the extended dark nights.

During the operation, officers had several complaints of heavy-handed sales tactics from some companies selling home security systems.

The sales reps call on potential customers and tell crime horror stories to induce them to buy an alarm, often at an inflated price.

Community safety officer PC Kevin Alder said: "We are aware that there are several organisations operating in the area.

"While they are not doing anything illegal, they are telling residents that Derwentside is a high crime area, when, in fact, crime is relatively low here.

"These people are then scared into buying an alarm system, often at a vastly inflated price. We would advise people to contact us first and we can provide a free home security survey."

Anyone wanting a free crime prevention survey on their home can contact PC Alder, at Stanley police station, on (01207) 232144.