A NEW safer homes scheme holds the key to cutting crime in Farnworth.

The crime busting home security programme introduced last year has already boosted security in 180 council homes.

Door and window locks, spy holes, wheelie bin chains and gate padlocks are among the free devices being installed to keep burglars at bay.

The programme is part of a Security and Repeat Victimisation project.

Victims of crime, and their neighbours, are offered the service, which is funded by the Little Hulton and Farnworth Partnership, through a police referral scheme, and perceived high crime areas.

Teams from the Intermediate Labour Market Initiative leading to Sustainable employment -- Bolton WISE -- fit the equipment.

Bolton WISE teams train in certain areas, in the hope that the programme leads to permanent employment.

And when operating in the security scheme, team members wear uniforms, have identity cards and can provide security codes to assure householders they are bona fide.

Mike Lever, project leader, said: "By providing extra security in homes, residents can have a better sense of well being.

"It is an excellent scheme which has been well-received by the local community and police statistics show that it has had an impact on reducing crime in the area and sustaining the community."