Neighbourhood Watch coordinators needed

The police have asked for people to come forward as Neighbourhood Watch coordinators at the scheme’s first meeting in Haverstock tonight.

Coordinators act as the link between people on their street and the local policing team, passing on important information and also feeding intelligence up to the police. The real benefit is that the scheme helps people get to know their neighbours, so that everyone looks out for each other and can recognise unusual or suspicious behaviour.

We already have active schemes in streets such as Talacre Road, Quadrant Grove, and Provost Road, but need to fill in the gaps. It’s not a huge amount of work, but can make a real difference. If you think you could give it a go, either drop me an email or contact our local Safer Neighbourhoods team directly.

A few other points from the meeting tonight:

• The police stressed that street robbery is extremely rare in the area;
• Residents were urged to buy timer switches for their lamps when they are away for long periods of time – these imply someone is at home and therefore deters burglars;
• Alarms on property can also act as a strong deterrent to burglars – but it helps to purchase one from an authorised dealer so that it’s linked up to the local police station;
• Free property marker pens and personal alarms are available from our local policing team and/or the council;
• Ladies were urged to photograph valuable pieces of jewelry so that, if the worst does happen, it’s easier for the police to track down and return them.