ELDERLY residents in Bolton are to get more new security to help them feel safer in their homes.

The council has set aside £270,000 to fit security doors, door chains and spy holes, security lighting, fencing and door entry/intercom systems at their older people's accommodation.

The money was allocated through the Older Person's Forum which is made up of older people from sheltered housing schemes and other accommodation.

The forum is used as a sounding board for various issues and submitted a number of bids along with those from councillors, residents associations and housing staff.

"This is people having a real say in how and where money is spent," said Councillor Noel Spencer, Bolton Council's Executive Member for Housing.

He added: "The forum, which is borough-wide, has become an excellent consultation channel to communicate with these groups and it was the forum members who agreed the submission and prioritised the work."

The Older Persons Forum meets monthly and each month there are speakers who cover a wide range of topics.

New members are always welcome and for more information contact Martin Regan, Elderly Services Manager on 335631.