COUNCIL bosses have launched a fresh crackdown on bogus doorstep sellers after figures showed part of the region had the highest rate of distraction burglaries in the country.

Nearly eight per cent of all burglaries of homes in County Durham involve residents being duped by bogus callers, compared to a national average of only four per cent, says Help The Aged.

A survey by the charity also suggested that the number of people targeted by such criminals nationally could be as high as 300,000 a year.

As a result, Darlington Borough Council has started its "Beware the Bogeyman" campaign.

One of its key features is trading standards officers providing training for carers who look after elderly and vulnerable people, so they can reinforce the safety message as part of their daily work.

Organisers said it was hoped that elderly people would listen to the advice if it came from someone they already knew and trusted.

In the first series of seminars, more than 20 home care workers from Age Concern received the training.

Plans are already under way to launch the second stage for staff from a number of agencies involved in the care of elderly people.

Stephen Harker, the council's cabinet member for consumer services, said: "Knowledge is the key to stopping this kind of activity and we are happy to be one of the first authorities employing this unique and innovative strategy to combat an attack on the older members of our community.

"It is hoped that, by providing information in this way, it can be relayed directly to the most vulnerable people who need it most."

Any organisation that wants a training seminar can contact Nigel Green, trading standards manager, 11 Houndgate, Darlington or telephone (01325) 388989.

The Northern Echo has been pressing through its Doorstoppers campaign for legislation to end cold calling by property repair companies, and for other firms that use cold calling to follow codes of good practice.

Householders should always check a caller's identity and never let anyone into the house if they are unsure who they are.

When in doubt, ring the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.