AN awareness campaign has been launched to encourage people in isolated areas to think before opening the door and protect themselves against burglary.

Tavistock Area Support Services (TASS), has launched the campaign in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police and Age Concern UK, to highlight the vulnerability of older people living in remote areas of towns and villages.

The campaign aims to educate people about bogus callers and the general security of their homes.

TASS will be holding a meeting about the campaign on February 11, from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the Anchorage Centre in Tavistock.

Andy Lyle, manager of TASS, said: 'Having been away on a training course to look at issues relating to burglary, the morning planned at the Anchorage Centre will be a time for people to reflect and consider how they might deal with certain situations. At the event we will have the Devon and Cornwall Police crime prevention officer, Care and Repair and other agencies.'

South Hams and West Devon crime prevention officer Mike Youlden said: 'Those within our community that are at particular risk of the bogus caller are the elderly.

'This campaign will assist in raising their awareness of what they can do to continue to feel safe in their own home. The main message is —not sure? Don't open the door.'

The initiative, which is part of a national campaign, has been funded by the Home Office.

To find out more about the awareness campaign or the meeting, contact Andy Lyle on 01822 616958.