COLD callers are being given the cold shoulder in a new neighbourhood scheme started by Bromsgrove District Council.

The Nominated Neighbour Scheme will be launched across the district in October, and aims to prevent and deter rogue traders and doorstep crime.

Cllr Margaret Sherrey, whose portfolio covers community safety, said: "I think this scheme will prove to be a fantastic deterrent against cold callers, protecting our most vulnerable residents.

"Cold calling and rogue trading can be despicable and they often know who to target, sadly often leaving the most vulnerable members of society traumatised and thousands of pounds out of pocket.

"No one likes a cold caller so help a neighbour, relative or a friend and get behind the scheme.”

The scheme, which has been designed to protect vulnerable and elderly residents, works by directing any cold callers to a nominated, trusted neighbour, who will check the identity of the caller and return them to the neighbour's address if genuine.

By doing this, it is hoped that callers who are not genuine will leave the property without hassle as they won't want their details checked.

The campaign has been funded by North Worcestershire Community Safety Partnership using funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner and developed by Bromsgrove District Council's community safety team.

An information pack is available on referral to the team on 01527 534187 or communitysafety@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.