PENSIONERS in Warrington are being targeted by high pressure salesmen who terrify people into handing over cash in return for shoddy burglar alarms.

Police issued a stern warning to the elderly this week after a woman received a call from a conman, announcing that due to a spate of burglaries near her home, he was making appointments to give security advice.

The vigilant pensioner checked the number and handed it to police, who have traced it to a cowboy company in the North East who use scare tactics to intimidate the elderly into giving them money.

Det Sgt Dave Betts explained how representatives from the firm call at the homes of their victims, bringing with them horrific photographs of people they claim have been attacked by burglars.

The firm is alleged to fit sub standard alarms worth just £250, but charge customers £2,500, and their salesmen have even offered to take victims to the bank to get the money.

So far no-one in Warrington has been duped, but police are anxious they watch out for security companies using these tactics.

Sgt Betts said: "Don't under any circumstances hand over money to a salesman or show them your bank book and you must not allow them to take you to your bank, post office or building society to withdraw cash.

"Trading standards are very interested to hear from anyone who has been approached."

If you receive a call from bogus salesmen, call Trading Standards on 444400 or Sgt Betts at the community safety team on 01244 613852.

Anyone with concerns about home security can contact the community safety department who can advise on reputable firms.