A NEW Neighbourhood Watch Scheme (NBW) has been set up in a Ryedale village.

The scheme has been launched in Crambeck with the support of Safer Ryedale following a positive response from the local community.

NBW - sometimes known as Home Watch - is one of the largest and most successful voluntary crime prevention initiatives across the country and membership provides many benefits.

As well as reducing local opportunities for crime, it strengthens communities by bringing local people together.

The focus on getting together with neighbours to cut crime and improve links with the police often boosts local communication and cooperation.

Councillor Eric Hope, chairman of the Safer Ryedale Delivery Team, said: “Being part of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme helps with the protection of your property and makes it easier to inform the police or the co-ordinator of any local suspicious activity.

“Door step crime can be one of the most disturbing, challenging and unwanted criminal activities as these door-to-door “salespersons” may be collecting intelligence for future criminal activity”.

A partnership between North Yorkshire Police Service and North Yorkshire NHW Association – which incorporates Ryedale NHW – works to ensure that North Yorkshire remain one of the most safest areas in the country to live, work and visit.

Gail Cook, community partnerships officer for Ryedale District Council, said: “If you are interested in joining the Crambeck Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, or would like to set up a scheme in your neighbourhood, please get in touch.”

NHW offers help to vulnerable residents with its Nominated Neighbour Scheme that helps them to stop bogus callers.

For more information, go to ryedalenhwa.co.uk