More than 40 volunteers are to join forces with police to stop the elderly and vulnerable falling victim to crime. So-called "distraction" burglaries are on the increase and involve a bogus salesperson keeping homeowners busy while accomplices break in elsewhere.
Now Cleveland Police and the University of Teesside have teamed up to train recruits to give advice on crime.
On Tuesday they will learn how to deliver video presentations as part of the 'Beware of the Bogeymen' campaign.
Detective Sergeant Greg Swinnerton said: "The aim of the campaign is to make people feel safer and less vulnerable in their own homes.
"Once trained, the volunteers will be able to present the video and explain some help tips in order to limit the chances of becoming a victim of distraction burglary."