RESIDENTS in rural areas of Darwen are being warned of ‘cold calls’ from security firms offering free burglar alarms.

PCSO Chris Williams, who covers Turton, Edgworth, Entwistle and Chapeltown, said concerned homeowners had received calls from Manchester-based companies claiming to be working with the police as part of a national crime awareness campaign.

They also enquired about existing security.

PCSO Williams said: “We had similar concerns earlier in the year when another company from the Manchester area were criticised for using the same script before then visiting residents and using unethical hard- selling techniques on elderly and vulnerable residents.

“There have also been confirmed scams nationally that follow the same routine and have cost vulnerable people thousands of pounds.

“Lancashire Constabulary is not working with these companies.”

Contact Darwen Rural Neighbourhood policing team on 01254 222135.