Sharp-eyed locals are to be offered cash awards for reporting suspected bogus callers to the police through an innovative new scheme launched this week.

The new anti-distraction burglary partnership between the MPS and British Gas is the latest stage in the fight against doorstep crooks - as evidence shows that conmen are using children as young as eight as decoys to con their way into homes.

The award scheme will encourage Londoners to keep a close eye out for their neighbours - alerting them to the dangers of bogus callers and encouraging people to report anyone they think is suspicious to the police in a bid to stop the crimes before the conmen can strike.

The move comes as figures reveal the full picture of the crooks conning their way into Londoner's homes every year.

• More than 2,000 distraction burglaries were committed in London between 1st April '05 and 31st Jan '06 - a fall of 17%
• Thieves got away with property valued at over £1m
• Most victims are over 60 years of age (90%)
• Offenders are of all ages, ranging from young children used to win the trust of older people to offenders in their 60s

The award scheme will encourage Londoners to keep a close eye out for their neighbours - alerting them to the dangers of bogus callers and encouraging people to report anyone they think is suspicious to the police in a bid to stop the crimes before the conmen can strike.

The partnership will also give out a simple message - 'If In Doubt, Keep Them Out' - on special poster vans and thousands of leaflets, endorsed by Help The Aged.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said "Distraction burglary is a crime that causes great distress to the victims often leaving the elderly in our society feeling vulnerable in their own homes. Good crime prevention measures can beat the burglar and the award scheme is aimed at raising awareness within the whole community and encourage those who are more able to ensure the vulnerable are supported."

Superintendent Simon Phipps said "These distraction burglaries have been a real problem locally, with elderly victims being targeted. We welcome this initiative, which will help us to reduce burglaries in the area."

April 4, 2006