There was very positive feedback from Dumbarton and Vale residents following a series of drop-in cafes run by cops designed to give advice on protecting against bogus callers.

A number of free drop-in awareness sessions were arranged for the local community, with the first taking place at the Concord Community Centre.

Anyone can be affected by doorstep crime but elderly residents are often targeted by criminals who engage in this type of illegal activity. To combat this in the West Dunbartonshire area, practical advice was provided in an informal and relaxed environment.

Invited guests from victim support, Trading Standards and Your Community were included to offer their support on the subject matter and what they had to offer.

Inspector Allan Dickson, of the community policing department, said: “These drop in sessions are part of a programme to raise awareness of the type of doorstep crime and scams which are being carried out at the moment.

“The important thing to remember is that by following some simple advice, you greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.”

Police ran the events in Dumbarton, Alexandria, Clydebank and Faifley, with 32 residents in total attending.

According to Police Scotland, feedback included: “All information was very useful;” “It re-enforced how to keep safe,” and “The best part was the reminder to be very aware of the common sense approach”.