What Londoners say...

I've lived in my house for nearly a year and I don't know my neighbours. Even though they live next door to me, I don't ask them to come and water the plants when I go away - I get a friend who lives nearby to come in instead. In the 10 years I've lived in London, I've never known my neighbours and I've never needed to.

Nirpal Dhaliwal, 30, writer, lives in Hackney with his wife

I work from home so I see the neighbours more than my wife, who works long hours. I know I could rely on them for anything. One of our cats has been missing for just over a week and I have put leaflets through the doors of about 200 houses near us. I have got to know more of our neighbours because of that.

Helen Ivison, 24, sociology student and accessories designer, lives in a flat in Acton

My parents live near me and I grew up in the area so I know quite a few people. There are two elderly ladies who live either side of me and I know them quite well. But I have to say, I don't think it's that important to know your neighbours. I keep myself to myself.

Derek Kersey, 61, retired airline pilot, lives in a house in Kensington with his partner

It's very important to get to know your neighbours. We have swapped house-sitting duties, gardening, and looking after pets. A few years ago, I went away and my house was burgled. My neighbours arranged to have my locks changed and replaced the glass in a window the thieves had broken. That was really good of them.

Abigail Sekwalor, 23, has just finished university, lives with her parents in Brentford

I've lived in my house since I was born so I know the neighbours really well. Everyone on my street knows each other because all the families have been there for years. I'm going to move to central London soon to get a job but I'm sure there won't be the same sense of community I'm used to now.

James Umoren, 21, record producer, lives in a flat in a block with his parents in Battersea

Living in a block, the neighbours often come round if I'm playing my music too loud - not to complain, though: they really like it. Last year, I heard a woman being attacked outside her flat and I ran out to help. I chased after the man and I got a black eye for it but I had to help. That's what neighbours are for.