A SCHEME has been set up to ward off rogue traders targeting elderly residents.

So-called No Calling Zones have been set up with signs telling cold callers and rogue traders to steer clear.

Residents are also being urged to fit security chains and ask people calling at homes for identification.

The initiative has been set up in Washingborough, near Lincoln.

Plans are also in place to introduce a similar scheme in nearby Heighington.

The signage warns potential callers that local residents are not interested in buying goods or services on their doorstep.

Graham Penn, doorstep crime initiative co-ordinator for Lincolnshire County Council's Trading Standards team, said: "The No Cold Calling Zones have been really successful in other parts of the county and, as a result, we're trying to get more set up."