Over 155,000 Neighbourhood Watch schemes operate throughout the United Kingdom and all you have to do to find out if your area is covered is contact your local Police station.

The schemes are usually run by a volunteer co-ordinator who will help get the committee working together and meeting regularly to make sure any problems in the area are resolved. The committee also keeps in touch with the local police to share information and advice.

If a scheme does not already operate in your area, your local crime prevention officer can tell you how to go about setting one up. It's a relatively easy process and could help to make your community a much safer, happier place.

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch and how it can help your area, please click on the following link www.neighbourhoodwatch.net