RESIDENTS had the chance to find out more about deterring scammers and rogue traders.

A doorstep crime awareness event organised by OWL Cymru took place at Broughton War Memorial Institute on Monday.

The event offered attendees a chance to find out more about doorstep crime, bogus callers, rogue traders, distraction burglaries and other issues, as well as how to keep themselves safe.

David Smith, Parc Jasmin neighbourhood watch coordinator, said: "In light of the recent increase in burglaries across Flintshire where vulnerable people in particular have been targeted, we have joined with Owl Cymru, Broughton War Memorial Institute and North Wales Police to bring the wider community of Broughton together with the aim of reducing crime and the fear of crime by raising awareness and increasing vigilance, therefore making our area a safer place to live.”

Denise Edwards of OWL Cymru said: "It's important to bring neighbours together - the more people who can play a part the safer it is."

Broughton resident Kathryn Wynne-Jones, 63, said: "It's very difficult for the older person to access most of the groups in society these days because of the lack of skills in technology.

"I think there should be more and they should be made more accessible - it is essential for older people because many people come to the door and a lot of scams happen."

Shelagh Pritchard, chair of Broughton War Memorial Institute, said: "In Broughton, crime seems to be on the increase.

"I've never known it to be so bad as it is now.

"This event is a chance for people to understand what OWL can do to help and what they can do to help themselves.

"It's so important, especially for older people who may live alone."

A range of resources and leaflets were available for members of the public to take away.

PCSO Steph Jones also attended to speak with residents who had concerns about safety.

She told the Leader: "This is to educate the community about the importance of home safety and doorstep crime.

"This is an issue we're having across the area."

Broughton South councillor Mike Lowe also attended and said: "I would encourage anyone to make use of this advice - anything to stop crime.

"OWL is a great organisation and they send out very useful advice and updates. I am pleased to see them here today."

Community Councillor Klaus Armstrong-Braun, neighbourhood watch coordinator for Eaton Close, said he'd encourage more residents to consider forming a neighbourhood watch group.

He added: "Setting up the watch has had a dramatic impact - since setting up we have had no burglaries in Eaton Close.

"Setting one up costs £25 for the sign, which is nothing.

"I'd encourage more people to find out more about setting one up."

For more crime prevention advice - including how to set up a neighbourhood watch scheme - call 01352 708118, email watch@owlcymru.org or visit www.owlcymru.org/wpsite/