A CARD scheme designed to help keep conmen callers out of vulnerable people's homes is being relaunched after a spate of crimes.

Police in Bishop Auckland have become concerned about the number of elderly people being targeted by tricksters claiming to be from public bodies such as gas or water companies.

The bogus officials usually distract their victim while an accomplice sneaks into another room and steals cash or valuables.

Police are now reissuing an advice card containing a list of contact numbers so residents can check the identity of any caller.

It also advises people arranging for repair workers to call at their homes, to agree a password with the visitor as an extra security measure.

The card is in black type on a yellow background so that people with poor sight can read it more easily.

PC Don Luke, in the community safety department at Bishop Auckland police station, said: "We have had a spate of incidents over the past few weeks where elderly people have let these conmen into their homes.

"Our advice is always to check the identity of anybody who knocks at the door asking to come inside."

Several thousand of the laminated cards are available at police stations in the Wear and Tees divisions.

Contact PC Luke on (01388) 603566.