COMMUNITIES are being urged to come together to help clamp down on distraction burglaries and doorstep crime.

By working together, West Mercia Crimestoppers and West Mercia Constabulary believe people can shut out the cold callers who target the most elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

Crimestoppers wants people to be on the lookout for strangers knocking on doors, and it is urging neighbours to note a description or take a photograph of the person acting suspiciously together with their car numberplate.

They also want them to call the police.

Jenny Wynn, chairman of West Mercia Crimestoppers, said: "We want everyone to get involved, from postmen, milkmen and workmen to villagers, carers, dog walkers and organisations.

"By working together we can hopefully bring more offenders to justice and prevent these crimes being committed in the future."

Research shows doorstep crime is less likely to happen in communities where there are visible and subtle signs of caring.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards, said: "We want to make Worcestershire a no-go area for distraction burglars and with the help if community good samaritans we can do it.

"We want people to take responsibility for the elderly and vulnerable in their area and ensure they do not become victims of these despicable thieves."

If you see anyone acting suspiciously call police on 0845 888 444 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.