RESIDENTS of Flitch Green have moved a step closer to launching Neighbourhood Watch in the area as part of an initiative to improve the way information is shared. Plans to get the scheme up and running were discussed at a meeting held at Flitch Green Prim

RESIDENTS of Flitch Green have moved a step closer to launching Neighbourhood Watch in the area as part of an initiative to improve the way information is shared.

Plans to get the scheme up and running were discussed at a meeting held at Flitch Green Primary School, which included residents, Uttlesford District Steering Group and local police.

Co-ordinator Sally Brown believes setting up the Neighbourhood Watch could bring residents into a tight-knit community and ensure the area is a safe and secure place to live.

She said: "I think this is a great idea and an opportunity for us all to be aware of what is going on in the area. If there's a crime or if something important comes up, such as a planning issue, then people should know about it.

"At the moment there is no easy way to find out what happens here; it's a bit like Chinese Whispers.

"There's a lot that the power of people can do and I hope it all comes together. People are really keen to get involved."

All 650 properties on the development will get the chance to sign up to the scheme and, once involved, residents will receive regular email updates about the issues affecting the area. Likewise, they can report any of their concerns to police or their local co-ordinator.

"It's a two-way thing - we get to know about the issues affecting the community and we'll be able to inform the police and the parish council about our concerns," added Mrs Brown.

Insp Glen Pavelin of Essex Police, who is responsible for neighbourhood policing in south Uttlesford, has supported the Flitch Green scheme.

Speaking at the meeting, he said: "This part of rural Essex has a low level of crime and we aim to keep it that way. We are not complacent and welcome the support of Neighbourhood Watch in helping to reduce the levels even further. My officers will give 100 per cent to this scheme."

In the coming weeks, the 13 street co-ordinators already signed up will be handing out membership packs to all the areas covered so far, and a communication system will be put in place to ensure that residents are alerted to any local incidents.

The scheme requires three more volunteer co-ordinators in parts of Warrin Road, Hallet Road and Durrand Lane.

If you live in Flitch Green and are interested in getting involved, contact Sally Brown on 01371 822973 or email sally.brown63@btinternet.com. If you would like to hear about getting Neighbourhood Watch in your area call the Essex Watch Administrator Lindsay Baillie on 01376 556232.