THE success of a scheme which aims to protect older residents against doorstep crime and scams will be toasted at a celebratory event in Bradford today.

The SAFER (Scams and Frauds Education for Residents) Project, funded by the Big Lottery and delivered by West Yorkshire Trading Standards (WYTS), began in Bradford and Leeds in November 2012, and has since provided more than 5,400 residents and professionals with advice, training, and front-line support.

It has also claimed £770,000 of benefits and wiped off more than £215,000 of debt.

Councillor Val Slater, chairman of the WYTS Committee, who will officially open the event at St Margaret’s Hall in Thornbury, said: “I am very proud of everything achieved.

“People now feel more aware to spot scams and feel confident in saying “no” to fraudsters.”