Dyfed Powys Police have launched a distraction burglary and rogue trader awareness campaign in a bid to prevent the most vulnerable in our communities falling victim to these types of crimes.

The campaign includes the distribution of awareness posters and leaflets in our communities.

In addition, special bags to hold medication have been distributed to local pharmacies to give out to customers. These bags also provide crime prevention advice relating to this type of crime.

This campaign is aimed at the most vulnerable people within our communities, who are often deliberately targeted by both bogus callers and rogue traders.

The leaflets will be distributed by Neighbourhood Policing Teams and the bags handed to local chemists in a bid to get the message across.

Detective Superintendent Simon Powell said: "Dyfed Powys Police is one of the safest places to live in England and Wales, but just like in other areas at this time of year, we also see an increase in bogus caller and rogue trader offences.

"As part of our campaign, we are asking friends and relatives of people who may be vulnerable to chat to them about the dangers of letting strangers into their homes, and the need to take simple precautions.

"It is important that we all work together to protect our vulnerable communities.

"In addition to this awareness raising campaign, we are also using a range of investigative methods to catch those responsible.

"The message I want to send to these criminals is that if they commit this crime in our area, then they will be caught!"

Inspector Alan Millichip added: "We will also be carrying out extra patrols in areas where we know we have an elderly or vulnerable population.

"If anyone has any concerns, please speak to us - there is lots we can do to reassure residents.

"For example, the force has a Bobby Van scheme which can fit extra security devices to elderly people's homes free of charge."

Simple advice is:

• Stop - look through window or spy hole, do you know the person calling?

• Chain - put the chain across your door.

• Check - check the ID of the caller.

Anyone with information can contact Dyfed Powys Police on 0845 330 2000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.