DURING the last year an initiative has been ongoing to promote and expand Homewatch areas.

As a result of a successful bid to Coalfield Challenge and the Greater Manchester Shrievalty Police Trust, funding was made available for this purpose.

The locations that benefited were within the Coalfield Challenge area such as Leigh, Golborne, Lowton, Platt Bridge, Abram and Bickershaw.

various methods were used including promotional events at Leigh Police Station, provision of security products namely electronic timing devices, shed/garage alarms, personal attack alarms and ultra violet marker pens, to participating groups. Existing co-ordinators were encouraged to spread the word beyond the boundaries of their own schemes.

The Police service has always considered the development of schemes as an important crime reduction tool. This has been reinforced by the requirement of central government to actively promote and support Homewatch.

Primary aims

One of the primary aims of Homewatch is to develop a sense of community spirit to not only reduce crime but also the fear of crime.

The initiative has been an outstanding success and pictured are the co-ordinators Mr and Mrs wilkinson, who represent members of the 50th scheme to have been established within twelve months.

Supt Mary Boylan, the sub divisional commander at leigh says: "We in the police service have always held Homewatch in high regard. We accept that it is impossible for our officers to provide a presence in all locations at all times. it is imperative therefore to ensure communities feel confident enough to play a part in the policing of their own areas. Homewatch provides a vital focal point for residents who are concerned about the area in which they live."

If you would like more information about homewatch or are interested in setting up a Homewatch scheme please contact the Homewatch administrators, Paula Wooding 0161-856-7212 for the Leigh area or Henry Wood 0161-856-7053 for Wigan.