SPECIAL constables will be visiting elderly people in the county this week as part of Operation Snowflake, a venture aimed at keeping them safer this winter.

As part of a joint exercise, the specials will deliver Christmas cards to all elderly and vulnerable people. The cards offer useful advice on security, especially in dealing with distraction burglaries, which are on the increase.

The advice on the cards include such tips as:

Your back door should be locked at all times, especially when answering the front door;

Confirm identification of all callers at the door if in doubt, keep them out;

Before any work is carried out always ask for a telephone number, not a mobile, and obtain a written estimate on official headed paper.

The card also includes a list of important telephone contact numbers for the police, the Bobby Van, Age Concern, Victim Support, Social Services, NHS Direct and others.

There is a calendar on the back to encourage householders to keep it for the whole year.