SPY holes have been installed in residents' homes following a spate of strikes by conmen in the Trinity Green area of Summerseat.

Community police, Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor Area Board and Six Town Housing have provided the spy holes, plus improved security lighting following concerns about high-pressure salesmen and bogus callers to elderly residents in the area.

The problem was brought to the attention of the area tasking team by PC Andy Hayes, who was particularly concerned about the poor porch lighting of the properties.

The new spyholes incorporate an intercom system and will be fitted to each home by Six Town Housing staff.

The council has also worked with Trading Standards so that the area can be designated a "No Cold Calling Zone".

Under the scheme, reputable companies will stay away from such areas, so any salesman who does knock should be treated with suspicion. This will make it easier for residents, as they can simply point out that it is a "No Cold calling Zone", and get rid of unwelcome callers very quickly.

Area co-ordinator Kim Griffiths said: "This was a problem that was tackled with simple yet effective solutions. It demonstrates the way in which police and local authority are pulling together to try and combat crime."