RESIDENTS of two Preston housing estates can relax after a new scheme to crack down on bogus callers enjoyed a 100 per cent success rate.

Identislot, which comprises of a slot to put an identification card through, an intercom facility and a viewing hole, was introduced to more than 100 houses on the Savick and Larches estates nearly two months ago.

It is designed to prevent bogus callers taking advantage or threatening residents on the neighbouring estates, off Blackpool Road.

The intercom includes a list of utility company telephone numbers which put them straight through to someone who will check if the person standing at the door is identifying themselves correctly.

In July last year people living on the estates alerted the Larches and Savick Community Association to their fear of crime, particularly from bogus callers.

Quick action was taken and Larches ward councillors and police pulled together and within three weeks from first talking to national company Identislot Ltd, the security devices, costing £65, were being used.

Feedback from people living in the area has been very positive.

Andy Lee, chairman of the association, said: "We have done an evaluation and 100 per cent of residents said they now feel safer in their own home and 100 per cent said they feel more confident when they see strangers at the front door.

"There has even been a reduction in the number of people knocking on doors where Identislot is fitted."

The devices have already been fitted in Preefall Road, Larches estate, and plans are now in place to fit more in to Nateby Place and Ainsdale Drive in the Larches and Birkdale Drive, Savick estate.

Mr Lee said: "The scheme has been a massive success so far and the people's fear of crime has reduced significantly. It shows that a simple device can make a difference and if we all work together it will be easy to beat this crime."