PENSIONERS have been testing a new crime-busting gadget designed to protect them from bogus callers.

Sedgefield has been chosen as a pilot area for the specially designed device called a door announcer. It has been fitted to 50 homes throughout the borough.

The product uses a voice chip and infra red detector to issue a pre-recorded message which is activated when a caller approaches.

It reminds the elderly occupant to perform certain checks, such as using the chain and asking for identification.

The message can be recorded by a police officer, or even a friend or relative if the user prefers a friendly voice.

Det Chief Insp Jeff Watson, of Newton Aycliffe Police, believes the device will prove a useful tool in the continued fight against doorstep fraudsters.

He said: "I think it's an excellent idea and early indications are that it will be of use.

"They may have to be modified slightly and it doesn't suit everybody, but we are in a pilot scheme and we will do everything we can to try and prevent this despicable crime."

PC Neil Langthorne, crime prevention officer at Newton Aycliffe, added: "We have tried all sorts of things to get the message out to old people, so I think this is a good idea.

"Quite a few people have found it reassuring to have this male voice at the door when they go to open it.

"Most of them like the idea of it being a police officer prompting them and on the whole the feedback has been positive."

Distraction burglaries, where conmen pose as seemingly credible callers to gain entry to victims' homes, has been a rising problem throughout the region. The average age of victims is 81 and 60 per cent are female.

Det Chief Insp Watson is the senior investigating officer for Operation Snapper, a force-wide initiative against distraction burglary which has seen several arrests and a reduction in offences in recent weeks.

He urged residents to telephone the police if they suspect an offence, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111