A CAMPAIGN to get people to become the eyes and ears of local communities has seen Neighbourhood Watch schemes quadruple in villages across North Yorkshire.

Police have also reported a 65 per cent increase in recipients of the Selby District’s Ringmaster messaging system which warn members of suspicious incidents, patterns of suspicious behaviour and any other crime issues in the area so they know to be on their guard.

It follows a campaign by police in Selby and Tadcaster to increase the numbers of Watch schemes in a bid to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour through community engagement, awareness, education and improved security.

Neil Charlton, police community support officer for the Tadcaster villages area, who fronted the drive, said: “I am extremely pleased with the enthusiasm for the schemes from residents and partners alike.

“This has resulted in the wards of Appleton Roebuck and Saxton and Ulleskelf being completely covered by Watch groups and the Ringmaster system is now operating in all 17 villages across the wards.”

Prior to the campaign there were two Watch schemes operating in the area – now there are eight and Ringmaster message recipients have increased from 35 to 54.

PCSO Charlton sent leaflets to every resident in the area, put up posters and held community engagement events to help promote the schemes.

He said: “The increase in Watch schemes is a really positive step and is testament to the villagers’ willingness to work with us and help us drive crime down, ensuring the area is kept as safe as possible.”

David McSherry, Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for Selby District, said it was the enthusiasm showed by local police commander Chief Inspector Richard Anderson and officers such as Neil Charlton that made each village, town and rural area safer.

If you would like to form a Neighbourhood Watch group or want to be added to the Ringmaster system, visit northyorkshire.police.uk/nhw and northyorkshire.police.uk/ringmaster.