South Ayrshire Division of Strathclyde Police and South Ayrshire Council have linked up to emphasise a special “Beat the Bogus Caller” campaign.

In a bid to combat unwelcome would-be thieves who attempt to trick their way into people’s homes the Council’s team of Community Support Officers has been invited to play a role in getting the message across to householders throughout South Ayrshire.

The officers have been supplied with posters and leaflets provided by both South Ayrshire Council and the Home Office to help get the message across.

Explaining the new initiative, Councillor Douglas Campbell, Convener of South Ayrshire Council’s Community Safety Committee said: “The help of the Community Support Officers has been arranged in an effort to give extra emphasis to the continuous campaign needed to combat bogus callers.

“Most people who call at the doors of people’s homes will be genuine, however at times people turn up unannounced with the intention of tricking their way in. They often have one clear intention – to distract attention, and steal money or valuables.

“Bogus callers can often be highly convincing. As they carry out their normal duties, the Community Support Officers will be giving out leaflets, to offer advice to residents on the care that should be taken to protect themselves against bogus callers.”

Said Strathclyde Police Superintendent Bruce Kennedy: “This is an excellent example of partner agencies working together to make our local communities safer”.

Community Safety staff at Ayr Police Office can be contacted for further advice on Bogus Callers or any other crime prevention issues on 01292 664010.

Community Support Officers Robert Hill, David Porte and Jill McClinton receive “Beat Bogus Callers” leaflets and posters from Superintendent Bruce Kennedy, Sergeant John Cairns and Councillor Douglas Campbell.

September 2005