BURY'S Home Watch chief is urging householders to show more community spirit to help trap the "contemptible cowards" who prey on the elderly.

And Denis Kirk, Home Watch administrator, is being backed by Victim Support, Bury Metro who witness first hand the pain and distress these thugs cause during and after bogus-distraction type burglaries.

Latest figures from Bury police show that there are least two such incidents each week.

Mr Kirk says: "These criminals seem to be able to find these elderly victims. Why don't other people, not necessarily those involved in Home Watches, know they are there?

"I want householders to adopt elderly and vulnerable people in their area and look after them."

He added: "If they see suspicious people knocking at the door of an elderly neighbour, they should shout across the road or fence 'what it is you want, who are you?'

Mrs Jane Sacks, Bury's Victim Support manager, said: "On a personal level, I find these crimes among the most distressing to deal with. I have seen, over and over again, the pain suffered by victims. "People are left feeling vulnerable and afraid. Their trust and confidence is undermined and the quality of their life is greatly affected."

She added: "When they have accepted someone's false story and had money and possessions stolen, they are angry and frustrated with themselves and start to doubt their competence."

Sadly, such victims are often urged to go into a residential home. But those who remain in their home often barricade themselves in and do not communicate with anyone, so as not to be at risk.

Mr Kirk is issuing guidance to Home Watch co-ordinators in the Bury area which underlines what action can be taken within the community to prevent such callous crimes.

The loose-leaf folder, entitled Tackling Crime Together, should be compulsory reading for all those leading the fight against crime in their community.

Co-ordinators wishing a copy can contact Mr Kirk on 856 8052.

Free audio tapes highlighting such crimes and what steps should be taken to avoid becoming a victim, are also available to the elderly.

They feature Helen's Story, narrated by Dame Thora Third, which is described as a "fireside chat". People wanting an audio tape can call in at Bury police station or ring Mr Kirk at the above number.

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