SENIOR SAFETY RANKS HIGH ON COMMUNITY SAFETY AGENDA

'Senior Safety' is ranking high on the local community safety agenda after a special event was held focussing on crime prevention and security for the over 50s

More than 130 senior citizens from Ards gathered to see a play designed to highlight the danger of bogus callers, as well as to hear from representatives of the police, fire and ambulance services.

The event was organised by the Ards Over 50s Forum and jointly funded by Ards District Policing Partnership (DPP) and Ards Community Safety Partnership (CSP).

"One of the key elements of our Community Safety strategy in Ards has been to address the concerns of those more vulnerable people in our community, particularly older people. We have to remember that senior citizens aren't any more likely to be the victims of crime than any other group, but attacks always make the news and are always more worrying, precisely because the person affected is vulnerable. This event is one way of providing both practical advice and, just as important, reassurance on all aspects of remaining safe in your home," said Chairman of the CSP, Councillor David Smyth.

The PSNI, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Home Accident Prevention, and Age Concern were among the organisations represented at the event.

Anyone who would like further information on community safety issues in Ards should contact Bob Wilson, Community Safety Manager, Ards Borough Council, Tel: 028 9182 4047.