PENSIONERS in east Cleveland are being given personal attack alarms.

The scheme is part of a borough-wide initiative, organised by Councillor Dave McLuckie, lead member for community safety with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.

He said: "These alarms are making pensioners feel much safer on the streets and in their homes. The response has been phenomenal. By the end of the summer, I hope to have handed out alarms in every one of the borough's 22 wards."

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's mayor, Councillor Vilma Collins, and her two Dormanstown ward colleagues, Councillors Peter Todd and Cliff Houlding, yesterday distributed the alarms to people at the Park Court and Severn Road community centres.

Coun Collins said: "I think it is an excellent idea. We've got a limited number, but I am sure they are going to be very well received.