NEIGHBOURS are being urged to keep an eye on visitors to the homes of elderly people to help crack down on distraction burglaries and rogue traders. Police in North Herts say that observant neighbours are instrumental in noting who calls at elderly reside

NEIGHBOURS are being urged to keep an eye on visitors to the homes of elderly people to help crack down on distraction burglaries and rogue traders.

Police in North Herts say that observant neighbours are instrumental in noting who calls at elderly residents' doors.

If they are aware of any regular visits or scheduled work to the house, they will be able to spot when unexpected tradesmen or cold callers turn up.

They should then note down the number plate of the traders' vehicle and ring the police.

Ch Insp David Partridge said: "They need to see who comes and goes and who they recognise in the area. Number plates are gold dust to us."

He was also keen to stress cold callers should always be turned away.

He warned that anyone who suspects a rogue trader has called at their house should immediately phone police so they can help prevent the trader striking elsewhere in the neighbourhood.

"If someone is shrewd enough to turn people away it's a 999 call and please do make that call," he said.

Ch Insp Partridge also urged residents to take part in the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

To find out whether or not your street is covered by the scheme, ring the coordinator Vee Halimana on 01462 425010.