Residents To Patrol Their Own Streets

9 June 2010, 08:10

Street Watch has been set up in Marston Moretaine and is the first pilot of eight schemes across the central Bedfordshire.

The scheme means people will be able to patrol their own neighbourhoods and help Police to tackle low-level crime and anti-social behaviour.

Bedfordshire Police say it's about building stronger and safer neighbourhoods by identifying and resolving low levels of nuisance and anti-social behaviour, increasing the feeling of safety and to increase a sense of community cohesion within their local area.

Central Bedfordshire Superintendent, Neil Wilson, said: "This is not about residents doing the work of police. This is an example of good citizenship and a desire among local people to do more to make their neighbourhoods even better places to live.

In that sense Street Watch is similar to other ‘watch’ groups that want to help their communities and we are looking forward to working in partnership with them and other partners."

He added: "I am very grateful to these local residents who are willing to volunteer within their communities."

Marston Street Watch co-ordinator Jean Ellis added: "This is an opportunity for local residents to give something back to our local area and to let people know that Marston Moretaine has a vibrant, caring community and we would like to keep it that way."