Still Game TV star Ford Kiernan joined residents of Moray Quadrant sheltered housing complex to support the initiative.

He said: "It is a despicable practice and I have no doubt, particularly with the efforts of the council and police, this is a project that will have a positive influence on victims, while sending out a strong message to criminals."

The initiative will be run by the North Lanarkshire Partnership and the Bogus Callers Task Force and is to be launched at Cardinal Newman High next week.

Vulnerable residents will receive a booklet containing practical information on security, a 'No Cold Calling' sticker to warn off potential criminals and a DVD featuring Kiernan.

Chief Superintendent Graham Cairns said: "The partnership working in this project has created a worthwhile education package and provides an increased opportunity to bring the perpetrators of such crimes to justice."

Full story in July 29 edition of Times & Speaker