A VILLAGE where an 89-year-old war veteran was viciously beaten by burglars has become the county’s biggest No Cold Calling Zone.

Police initiated the scheme in Salterforth after villagers were left frightened by the brutal attack at Bob Scho-field’s home.

The investigation into the incident centered on door-to-door salesmen or ‘hawkers’ who detectives suspect of being involved.

But following the official launch of the No Cold Calling Zone, hawkers are deterred from operating in the village.

The initiative is backed by Bob’s son, John, who was at yesterday’s launch.

He said: “The fact there are warning signs up in the village and stickers in each home should help to deter unwanted visitors and give residents the confidence to turn away any-one who does decide to knock on the door.

“It will also encourage people to call the police or trading standards if they do get a cold caller which means prompt action can be taken.”

Bob Schofield was left with horrific facial injuries after confronting burglars at his Chapel Hill home in November 2008.

The pensioner, who served in the Second World War, spent weeks in hospital.

His 87-year-old wife Mollie suffered from shock after the assault and died less than six months later.

When planning the scheme, police worked with trading standards, the parish council and residents.

The zone, which is the first in Pendle, means ‘No Cold Calling’ signs and stickers are displayed around the village.

It is hoped it will reduce the risk of elderly residents in particular, falling prey to unscrupulous tradesmen.

PC Karl Pickles said it was not an offence for tradesmen to visit but any resident who receives an unsolicited knock can report it to trading standards. He said the scheme had been successful in other towns.

County council deputy leader Albert Atkinson said: “No Cold Calling Zones act as a deterrent to unwanted door-step callers and give residents the confidence to say ‘NO’ to doorstep sellers who can sometimes be persistent or aggressive to residents.”