Personal alarms similar to this are being issued in Sunderland

Northumbria Police is targeting the west end of Sunderland in the move, which the force hopes will allay fears of the area's largely elderly population.

The force is spending �10,000 which it has received from the government's Neighbourhood Renewal Fund.

As well as personal alarms, officers are also handing out car locks, garden shed alarms, door chains and spy holes.

Sergeant Steve Baker, of Sunderland south community policing team, said: "We are not just offering residents crime prevention advice, but also free security devices.

"We hope this will result in fewer offences being committed and fewer victims, reducing the fear of crime among residents."

'Security conscious'

Officers are also offering security equipment to residents whom they know have been repeat victims.

Mr Baker said: "For those suffering from house burglaries we have small burglar alarms, and for repeat car crime victims we are giving away steering wheel locks.

"We hope residents will contact us and learn how to become more security conscious.

"It is a good opportunity to pick up a device and get expert advice about how to use it effectively."

Officers have organised a series of events at community centres in the area over the coming days.

Mr Baker added: "Some devices offer peace of mind, particularly for vulnerable elderly residents."