An OAP has kept his money and possessions intact by heeding a local press campaign warning about bogus callers.

The 78-year-old was visited by a man who brazenly walked into his house, claiming to be collecting some plants left for him from the back garden of the pensioner’s next door neighbour.

But mindful of the warnings of The Shields Gazette’s ‘Knock ’em Back’ campaign, the elderly gentleman gave the intruder his marching orders and called police.

He told the Johnston Press daily: “I had followed the Gazette’s bogus caller campaign which is what made me act.

“I got in there first and told him I had no money, and that my neighbour wasn’t in, then I guided him back to the front door.

“I checked with my neighbour and no plants had been left for him, so I contacted the police. I was a bit upset at first – but you can’t be too wary.

“The paper’s campaign was definitely worthwhile, as it makes people think and keeps everyone alert.”

Knock ’em Back was launched in June in conjunction with Age Concern, Northumbria Police and South Tyneside Council.

It calls on residents to unite against bogus callers and rogue traders targeting the elderly and vulnerable for cash.

Shields Gazette editor John Szymanski told HTFP: “Bogus callers, by and large, do tend to prey on the vulnerable and elderly as they see them as easy pickings.

“The bitter truth is that these victims really do suffer both financially and psychologically when conned out of their cash or become the target of thieves.

“It is a despicable crime that exploits the good and trusting intentions of householders who don’t expect to fall victim to crime in their own homes.

“So we were delighted that Gazette readers heeded the campaign, which we launched to raise awareness around South Tyneside, and took action to make sure they were on their guard whether these predatory lowlifes came calling – and who got short shrift for their trouble.”