ELDERLY people living alone in Newton are to be offered a better sense of security, thanks to a scheme which should be ready in time for next winter.

Dawn Patrol is a voluntary scheme that encourages children to adopt a street in their neighbourhood. On their way to school the children check that the elderly residents involved in the scheme are up and well.

The scheme was first put forward by the British Red Cross at a meeting of the Newton and Haydock Multi Agency Group, which is supported and co-ordinated by the Newton and Haydock Primary Care Group.

Val Cunningham, community development leader for Newton and Haydock Primary Care Group and Multi Agency co-ordinator, said: "The project is still in its planning stages but we are hopeful that this simple scheme could make a real difference to the lives of elderly people ."

Anyone who would like to learn more about Dawn Patrol can contact the British Red Cross on 01925 229740.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.