A DARWEN councillor whose constituents are frightened of opening their doors to strangers has launched a campaign to make them feel more secure.

Coun Roy Davies, who represents Sudell ward, is battling to obtain funding to provide front door spy holes for elderly people in his neighbourhood.

He hopes it will make them feel safer in their homes and they would not need to open their doors to anyone they did not recognise.

Coun Davies said: "I was told that Groundwork fits things like spy holes so I got in touch.

"Apparently the Trust funding has all gone because fitting these security measures can cost between £350 and £400 each.

"I have asked Christine Fernandez, who is the council's new neighbourhood co-ordinator, if there was any funding.

"We need to get something done soon before fireworks are being set off every night and youngsters are knocking on doors asking for money for the guy. It's these kind of things which unnerve the elderly and if they had spy holes they would at least be able to check who is on their doorstep.

"It would also stop them opening doors to bogus callers who trick their way into the homes of the elderly to rob them."

Coun Davies decided to push for funding following an incident earlier this month in which a conman tricked his way into the home of a pensioner in London Terrace and stole cash.

Groundwork is an environmental regeneration organisation, working in partnership with other agencies and the community to benefit local people.