VULNERABLE people in Burnley have been made to feel more secure in their homes, thanks to a pioneering local initiative.

The Burnley Security Scheme, run by Anchor Staying Put, in Plumbe Street, is celebrating its first year of providing practical help to victims of crime and other vulnerable groups, such as pensioners and disabled people.

In the 12 months since the project started more than 670 people in Burnley have applied for help. Door and window locks, safety chains, door peep holes and smoke alarms have been fitted in homes across the town.

The scheme is funded from various sources, including the Government's Single Regeneration Budget, Neighbourhood Renewal Fund and Communities Against Drugs.

Anchor Staying Put in Burnley works with the council, Social Services, the Primary Care Trust and Lancashire County Council.

Its aim of the service is to allow people to 'stay put' in their homes by providing help with repairs and improvements to properties.

Staying Put also advises people on funding and benefits and will recommend contractors it deems reliable to carry out work.

Burnley councillor Charles Bullas, chairman of the Burnley Community Safety partnership, said: "Reducing burglary is just one of the targets of the community safety strategy and this scheme is helping us to achieve that.

"Not only does it reduce the likelihood of burglary, but also reduces the fear of crime. The scheme covers the whole of Burnley and is very well received."

Coun Bullas' praise for the scheme was echoed by one of its organisers. "We receive details from the police of victims of burglaries who have requested our help. Our aim is to help them feel safe and secure in their own homes and the police hope it will play a part in reducing burglary levels," said Alyson Barnes, agency manager for Anchor Staying Put.