Crime-hit pensioners in Sandys are urged to attend a public meeting tomorrow as Police and Government move to improve security.

Community constable Donville Yarde called the meeting after muggers, con artists and burglars preyed on residents living at the Heydon Park estate.

He said one con man had duped a pensioner out of "lots of money" after claiming he needed it for a sick relative.

Last month a knife-wielding robber took $94 from a terrified 84-year-old resident at the sheltered homes development in Heydon Drive after breaking in during the early hours of the morning. There was also an attempted burglary at the site.

P.c. Yarde said a crime prevention officer had visited the site and spotted room for improvement including poor lighting.

He said Bermuda Housing Corporation representatives have been invited to the meeting along with residents, their families and the public.

He said he hoped to set up a neighbourhood watch to promote crime prevention.

Age Concern Executive Director Claudette Fleming said she was very concerned about crime on the estate.

She said: "I support the community in coming together to look at the problem and ways to support the elderly people there."

She said there was a good chance local people could have seen the lurkers.

Ms Fleming said she had spoken to one elderly resident who was scared about criminals.

"She says she's fearful and very vigilant about who comes.

"Because the residents are old they are unable to protect themselves. It's very frightening.

"They don't have any security guards up there and it's kind of enclosed and back from the road."

The meeting will be held at St. James's Hall church at 6.30 p.m.