A SUCCESSFUL initiative is making people's homes more safe and secure.
In an effort to help residents in Hartlepool combat house crime, the New Deal for Communities (NDC) has employed a former police crime prevention officer to give advice.
Colin Hopkins visits people's homes and advises them on basic security measures, and has just completed his 100th visit.
Anyone living in Hartlepool's NDC area - which has a population of 10,000 and stretches from Hart Lane in the north to Belle Vue in the south - can ask for their home to be assessed.
A visit could result in window-locks, door-bolts, spyholes or lights being fitted free of charge.
Once an assessment has been made, Endeavour Housing carries out the work.
Mr Hopkins said: "I only took up my post with the NDC in February, so I am delighted to have received 100 referrals in such a short space of time. The scheme has so much potential to really make a difference to thousands of people's lives."
To request a visit, call Mr Hopkins on (01429) 894046.
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