RESIDENTS at a Blackburn sheltered housing complex fear for their safety after items were stolen from communal areas.

Helen Houghton and Jean Campbell-Jones, both 90, live in separate apartments in Hornby Court, Lancaster St- reet, which is run by Places for People.

They said their concerns were raised after belongings were taken from the lounge and corridors.

The pair believe the problem stems from people without permission getting into the complex and then helping themselves to whatever they can find.

They said they had made the warden aware of their concerns but did not feel they were being taken seriously enough.

Helen said: “You don’t feel safe. I see people coming and going through the gate at 2am.

“I came in here to be safe but they’re trying your door handle at 1.35am. One man caught someone trying to break into his flat through the window.”

Jean added: “The problem is, if you go to the warden with anything, you don’t get a reply. I thought I was safe in this flat, but evidently not.”

Claire Gouldsbrough, 29, family friend and visitor to Helen, said: “They are meant to be looked after and made to be safe, and it’s just not happening. They’re meant to be away from all this. We’re absolutely worried sick.”

However Places for People said the firm was installing CCTV and working with police to allay any security concerns.

A spokesman said: “We take all reports of this nature very seriously and it is important to us that residents feel safe and secure in their homes. We have a secure door entry system, and following feedback from residents we are installing CCTV.

“We will continue to meet regularly with residents and are also working together with the local PCSO to address any concerns and provide support to residents.”

A police spokesman said: “We are aware of the issues, have a heightened presence in the area and the local policing team are working closely with Places for People to address the concerns.”