A BEAT-the-burglar scheme aimed at the over 55s has had a 100 per cent success rate.

None of the 144 homes in Haslingden fitted with special security devices in the last year has been burgled.

Now all over 55s in the town are urged to contact Age Concern and put their names on the waiting list for the free package of anti-crime measures such as window locks and door chains.

Operation Safeguard was launched when police statistics showed 27 per cent of the victims of break-ins in Rossendale were in this age group.

It is funded by the Action for Haslingden Challenge Fund and Rossendale Council and operated by Age Concern

A crime prevention officer or special constable calls to look at the property and suggest security improvements. Details are then passed on to Age Concern and materials and labour are provided free of charge

Edmund Harrison, Rossendale Operations manager for Age Concern, said: "Many older people have benefited.

"They not only get some extra security devices but also a certain reassurance and peace of mind as a result."

Sally Collins, Managing Director of the Action for Haslingden Partnership, added: "The sense of personal loss often extends beyond damage to the property and the stolen items themselves and can lead to a fear of crime."

Haslingden people who want to add their names to the waiting list should contact Age Concern on 01706 877294.

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