DARLINGTON residents have been warned after reports of cold-calling by a security firm.

The warning came from the borough council's trading standards team, which has received a number of complaints about the practice.

Several residents reported a security firm phoning them from a withheld number and asking whether or not they would be at home later that day.

Elderly residents were particularly targeted and a trading standards spokesman said: "Some residents were left feeling nervous after fearing that they may have indicated their homes would be unoccupied."

Councillor Veronica Copeland, the council's cabinet member for consumer and environmental services, said: "If anyone is subjected to this type of cold-calling, they should be careful not to give out any personal details or information about when they will be at home.

"Anyone needing advice about security should contact their local beat police officer or any of the reputable security firms."

Darlington Police are organising a campaign to crack down on doorstep crime.

The Northern Echo reported earlier this month on a burglary by criminals who targeted an elderly person's house in Hurworth Place, near Darlington.

Two thieves tricked their way into the house by asking to borrow a piece of paper so they could leave a note for a neighbour.