POLICE in Durham have criticised the high-pressure sales techniques of a security alarm company.

They are urging people to get free, impartial advice from their local crime prevention officer instead.

They have received a series of complaints about a Teesside firm - it isn't being named - which is "cold calling'' on homes in the city, asking people questions such as whether they live alone or keep valuables or cash, purportedly to find out what alarm system they need .

Sales advisers claim that crime is rising in the city when it is actually falling, and salesmen offer to fit alarm systems for a starting price of £4,000 when the equipment is only worth £250.

One elderly couple in Newton Hall endured a three-and-a-half hour visit from a persistent salesman who reduced the price of an alarm system to £2,400.

The couple declined to buy and eventually managed to get rid of him.

Crime prevention officers say the firm is not police-approved and not a member of any official trade body.

However its tactics, which are not illegal, are causing distress and increasing people's fear of crime.

PC Dave Strong said: "You should never divulge personal details over the phone to canvassers. If you need an alarm system ensure the installer is approved by a recognised body. Approved companies do not use dubious sales techniques.