GREATER Manchester Police is backing a national campaign to prevent elderly people falling victim to bogus callers.

TV personalities including Angela Rippon, Terry Wogan and Esther Rantzen are among those who have given their support to the Home Offices Lock, Stop, Chain and Check campaign.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Hassall, of Greater Manchester Police (GMP), said: "Between August, 2003, and July, 2004, incidents of distraction burglary were reduced by 43 per cent compared with the same period in 2002/2003.

"Members of the public can help by reporting anyone they suspect is a bogus caller operating in their neighbourhood and by victims reporting offences or suspicious incidents."

Simple steps to avoid bogus callers are:

Always keep your back and front door locked even when you are at home

If there is someone at your door, stop and think whether you are expecting anyone. Ensure the back door is locked before answering the front door

If you open the door, put the door bar or chain on first. Keep the chain on while you talk to the person on the doorstep

If a stranger wants to come in and claims that they are from a utility company, the local authority or any other organisation, always ask for identification - close the door and check the ID carefully.

Call the head office if you are still unsure - but use the number from the telephone directory or a recent utility bill, not the one on the card.