A FREE scheme to deter cold callers and rogue traders can help neighbours in Bromsgrove work together to ward off doorstep criminals this autumn.

Nominated Neighbour uses bright yellow window stickers to show potential house callers that that they will only been seen if accompanied by a known and trusted person who has verified their identity.

All it takes is a neighbour, family friend or family member to agree to be nominated and have callers directed to them.

Cllr Phil Thomas, Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for community safety, said: “It’s that time of year when criminals and rogue traders go around posing as officials or offering fake maintenance work as a cover for rip-off work or even for distraction thefts and burglary.

"Sadly, this despicable behaviour can leave people including the most vulnerable members of society traumatised and out of pocket.

“Let’s make it harder for them and help our neighbours, relatives and friends give cold callers the cold shoulder.”

For more details, call the council on 01527 534187 or email CommunitySafety@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.