PEOPLE in all areas of the community were being urged today to keep watch over colleagues, friends and neighbours as part of the fight against crime.

Civic leaders were meeting at the Mansion House in York to mark the success of a family of community watch schemes that now covers neighbourhoods, pubs, schools, golf courses, farms, allotments and garage forecourts.

Police want to boost the numbers of residents participating in the scheme which is proven to cut crime and acts as a deterrent to opportunist thieves and intruders.

Members of the Safer York Partnership today launched a new website which gathers details of Community Watch schemes and offers crime-fighting information and resources.

Chief Superintendent Tim Madgwick said he "wholeheartedly supports" the Community Watch programme and said getting information from residents is a "key element" in fighting crime.

He said: "I commend the success and growth of all the schemes, and the individuals and groups who give of their time freely to contribute to crime reduction in this way."

Council Leader, Steve Galloway said: "Listening, watching and acting on matters of crime, nuisance behaviour, and environmental damage are crucial in maintaining York as a vibrant, cosmopolitan and safe city.

"I urge all residents to play an active part in safety and security, not only for their own protection, but to benefit everyone in the neighbourhood."

Residents can access crime prevention tools, including alarms, marking equipment and light timers through Community Watch and through the Safer York Partnership.

Deborah Rollinson, Community Watch co-ordinator, said: "There are no limits to membership either from individuals or groups.

"Where there is a will there is a way, so if a new niche group comes forward with either a concern or a proposal we will always look at ways of developing the idea and assist in moving things forward."

Bob Wood, chair of Safer York Partnership, said security devices, such as the Ringmaster electronic system which passes warning messages of possible criminal activity between users, is just one weapon in the fight against crime.

If you would like to help make a difference to where you live or work, phone Deborah Rollinson, Community Watch co-ordinator, on 01904 669072.

Updated: 10:58 Monday, April 05, 2004