LANCASHIRE Trading Standards chiefs have urged residents to join the fight against doorstep crime by becoming the first port of call for businesses visiting their community.

The new ‘nominated neighbours’ scheme will see postcards distributed to elderly or vulnerable people instructing traders to call selected neighbours.

The idea is for cards to be displayed at the front doors of those who feel intimidated by cold callers and doorstep sellers.

Over 300 doorstep crime cases are reported to Lancashire County Council’s Trading Standards service every year, often involving the most vulnerable people in the community.

County Councillor Janice Hanson, cabinet member for public protection services, said: “Rogue traders can bring misery to those who live alone or are particularly vulnerable.

“Lancashire residents have a strong sense of community and we're asking people to be on the lookout for doorstep crime where they live to help stop neighbours falling foul of the rogues.

“If you have vulnerable people living nearby, please consider becoming a nominated neighbour to them and suggesting they display your details on one of our cards.”

You can request a nominated neighbour card by sending your details to tsscams@ lancashire.gov.uk