SENIOR citizens who are the victims of crime are being given extra peace of mind with a home security scheme.

Window locks are being fitted to ground floor and accessible first floor windows, at the homes of older Gateshead Council tenants, who have recently suffered burglary.

Research indicates that a second burglary can quickly follow a first, so the security of window locks can be a big deterrent to would-be burglars.

The scheme is open to any resident aged over 50 years, living in a pensioner's bungalow, or aged over 60 years and living in any other type of property, who has recently been burgled.

These residents are being urged to contact their nearest Gateshead Council office, for more information about the free window locks scheme.

Councillor Malcolm Graham said: "Gateshead Council has a strong commitment to the safety of its residents, especially our older ones. Simple schemes, like the fitting of window locks, can make a huge difference to the peace of mind of our residents, especially after the trauma of a burglary."