AGE Concern Southampton is offering pensioners advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of crime in their own home.

The charity says elderly people can beat bogus callers by using their door chain, locking their back door before opening their front door, and checking the caller’s identity carefully.

Pensioners can also deter casual thieves by fitting solid wooden doors and using adequate locks on doors and windows.

Age Concern Southampton is inviting older residents to attend its annual meeting at Above Bar Church tomorrow at 2pm to hear speakers from police and trading standards.