“The association would encourage them to establish a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme; this would include identifying one volunteer to become the co-ordinator for their street. There is very little work involved, but it can bring great peace of mind to their street.”

VOLUNTERS are needed to act as Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators in the East Cambridgeshire area.

Chairman of the association for East Cambs, Stan Geering, told the Ely Standard: “Statistics show that there is significantly less crime and anti social behaviour in areas that have an active Neighbourhood Watch scheme that includes prominent signage and window stickers. This fact is recognised by many insurance companies who will reduce the premiums for home insurance cover. For those that wish to keep themselves and their neighbours feeling safe and secure, the association would encourage them to establish a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme; this would include identifying one volunteer to become the co-ordinator for their street. There is very little work involved, but it can bring great peace of mind to their street.”

The association is undertaking a programme of removing old and redundant Neighbourhood Watch street signs in areas where the scheme is no longer active. So far 70 signs have been removed from the streets of Ely and this activity will continue throughout the rest of the district.

INFO: If you would like more information about what is involved in becoming a volunteer, contact association secretary

Kevin Evans on 01353 614892 or email Kevin.g.evans@ntl.com

Pictured is Stan Geering removing some of the old signs.