DEVASTATED, shocked, violated, and even a bit stupid - those are the typical emotions experienced by the victim of a bogus caller.

But worst of all they lose their trust in people, says Age Concern Wyre Forest's chief officer Pat Simmonds.

"It knocks their confidence for six. They are afraid to open their doors and sometimes even afraid to go out. They are warm-hearted and trusting people - and some people in society choose to abuse that trust. It's a horrible crime."

Police have investigated 32 so-called "distraction" burglaries in the past nine months across the Kidderminster division, but it is thought the true extent of the problem is much higher, with some people too afraid or ashamed to come forward.

"One of the things people say to me is that they feel so stupid for falling for their lies and for letting these people in. But of course it is not their fault for being trusting - it is the bogus callers who are to blame," added Mrs Simmonds.

The organisation is one of several across Wyre Forest which is making on-going attempts to educate older people, particularly those living alone, about the risks of letting strangers into their homes.

The message - also supported by Help The Aged, Citizens' Advice Bureau, Wyre Forest District Council and Wyre Forest Community Housing - is certainly beginning to sink in.

The criminals themselves, who deliberately home in on areas with a high elderly population, or who look out for bungalows and disabled ramps, often move from area to area quickly to avoid detection.

In 2001 police in six forces, including West Mercia, launched Operation Liberal to try to track down the travelling thieves often responsible for this type of crime.

But the new "door reminder" warning system could make further inroads into preventing it.

Police in Wyre Forest have secured £15,000 in Home Office funding to pay for some 500 of the devices, made by Home Office approved company Solon Security.

The devices can be placed on a hallway table or hung on a hook near the front door. When a beam of light is broken as the householder goes to the front door, a message begins to play reminding them of what to do next.

Sgt Jeff Hill, of Kidderminster Police, who co-ordinated the funding bid, said the 15-second message could be recorded by a relative or friend.

"Typically it would be something like: 'Now mum, don't forget to put the chain on. Check their ID and don't let any strangers in. Call me if you've got any doubts.'

"It's a really simple idea but we think it could work."

The devices retail for about £14.95 but police intend to distribute them free to previous victims and those identified as being particularly vulnerable. They hope people who can afford to pay will do so, enabling them to purchase more for those in need.

Your Shuttle/Times and News has got five of them to give away. Write in with the details of someone you think should have one to: Jane Abbott, Shuttle/Times & News, 6 Towers Buildings, Blackwell Street, Kidderminster DY10 2DY.

Anybody who wishes to discuss sponsoring more of the devices, or who wishes to purchase one for themselves or a friend or relative, should call Jane Abbott on 01562 633330. We are also keen to talk to people who have been victims of distraction burglaries, and their relatives, about the effects of this despicable crime.

Tips to prevent you or your loved one or neighbour becoming a victim include remembering to stop, put on the chain, checking before answering the door to anybody; keeping doors and windows locked at all times; keeping an eye out for strangers calling at homes and reporting suspicious callers to the police

Information can be found in a booklet about bogus callers, available from police stations. Alternatively, contact Wyre Forest CAB, which has teamed up with Worcestershire Trading Standards to produce an information booklet and stickers aimed at deterring unwanted callers and cold-calling tradesmen.