Neighbourhood watch website targets young crime fighters

A new neighbourhood watch website aims to raise awareness among young busy Londoners of local crime.

People can search for their nearest scheme by entering their postcode and organisers hope it will attract those who don't normally get involved.

Speaking at the launch yesterday, Jim Maddan, chairman of the London Neighbourhood Watch Association, said: "This is an opportunity for people who can't attend meetings to get information by a different means.

"Evidence shows that raising awareness has an impact on crime. Criminals will steer clear of areas with a strong neighbourhood watch presence."

The association's Warwick Baldwin added that it will also allow people from different boroughs to swap ideas. Baroness Newlove, whose husband Garry was murdered by youths outside his Warrington home, attended the website launch before her maiden speech at the House of Lords.

The Government's community champion said: "This is moving things forward. People don't have time to fill out forms so now they can go online."

For more information visit www.lnwa.net