NEW measures to tackle doorstep crime were unveiled yesterday.

A number of North Yorkshire organisations attended a seminar at the Cairn Hotel in Harrogate to discuss bogus callers.

Most major utilities and other organisations involved in calling on houses, have signed a National Cold Calling Protocol, which requires staff to carry an identification card, declare their name and organisation, and be prepared to call back later.

They should also be able to provide a telephone number so that householders can verify their details.

The seminar was organised by North Yorkshire County Council with the North of England Trading Standards Group.

Councillor John Dennis, executive member for the North Yorkshire County Council Business and Community Directorate, said: "By bringing together organisations such as local authorities, the police and voluntary groups, we hope to generate some real commitment to tackling this menace."