A MASSIVE rise in crime has been recorded since the trial of a money saving scheme plunged Dunmow into darkness at night. The scheme, by Essex County Council, was to save taxpayers cash by switching off street lights between midnight and 5am. But home-ow

A MASSIVE rise in crime has been recorded since the trial of a money saving scheme plunged Dunmow into darkness at night.

The scheme, by Essex County Council, was to save taxpayers' cash by switching off street lights between midnight and 5am.

But home-owners' fears their homes will be broken into or their cars stolen in the dark hours have been realised.

Sarah Brockwell, 38, who lives on High Meadow, is so concerned she has sent a petition off to the council offices signed by 39 residents who all agree that their safety is under real threat.

She said: "During May this year there have been several burglary attempts where thieves, under the cover of darkness, have tried to break into homes using a drill on the wooden window frames. On top of that cars have been vandalised or even stolen on roads in the surrounding area."

Mrs Brockwell described crime in the area as being "seriously higher" compared to this time last year and has spoken to the police about it on a number of occasions.

Consultation on the controversial scheme was only extended to police officers in the area and they agreed on a trial period in January 2007. The scheme has been rolled out to more and more areas since as the council say they are trying to "radically cut carbon emissions throughout the county".

A county council spokesman has said the council will consider the petition as part of the consultation process, but residents want immediate action.

"The petition is designed to get the lights switched back on and for us to all feel safe in our own street again," said Mrs Brockwell

Dunmow Police have stated that they are aware of the situation and after speaking to Mrs Brockwell, and other residents, have agreed for more patrols in that area in a bid to cut crime.

What do you think? E-mail us at nick.thompson@archant.co.uk or write to us at 2 Angel Lane, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1AQ.