Northampton estate to benefit from £9,500 Neighbourhood Watch scheme grant

Blackthorn, in Northampton, has been included to benefit from a £9,500 grant to fund the area's neighbourhood watch projects.

The area has become the latest location to benefit from a new Neighbourhood Watch scheme, thanks to a partnership between the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Stephen Mold, Northamptonshire Neighbourhood Watch and Northampton Borough Council (NBC).

The grant was awarded to the Northamptonshire Neighbourhood Watch Association as part of the PFCC's safer Northants grants, which has already funded 10 new schemes in the county, including Blackthorn and recent additions in Thorplands and Pineham Lock.

PFCC Stephen Mold, said: “I’m delighted that our funding continues to support the Neighbourhood Watch Association and Northampton Borough Council in establishing new schemes across the county and most recently in Blackthorn.

“We know that with areas in Northampton, a well-run scheme, that has a good relationship with the Neighbourhood Policing Team, has reduced crime by more than 30 per cent. This shows the significant strides these partnerships make in helping to reduce crime and build stronger and safer communities.”

Neighbourhood Watch signs have been put up by NBC's neighbourhood wardens in key locations around Blackthorn and residents are being encouraged to join the scheme and become one of the many thousands of people committed to making the county "safer, friendlier and more vibrant".

Chairman of Northants Neighbourhood Watch, Alan Earle, said: “I am grateful to the ongoing support of the PFCC particularly during these challenging times. Neighbourhood Watch schemes can make a real and long-lasting difference to local communities.

"Not only do we see a reduction in crime and anti-social behaviour, but our presence in local communities is a reassurance to residents and helps in developing stronger community cohesion.”

Councillor Anna King, from NBC, said: “We want to work with our residents and want them to know that we are here to help and support, but we also need their help in making their community a more pleasant and safe place in which to live.

“If you are experiencing anti-social behaviour, witnessing criminal activity in Blackthorn or surrounding areas or are a victim of hate crime, we want you to let us know. We would also appreciate your help in reporting fly tipping, especially if you should witness the offence as the information you give may assist in a successful prosecution.”

For more information, visit www.ourwatch.org.uk/join