A FORMER finance manager is urging people to sign up to her Neighbourhood Watch group.

Pamela Freer, from Front Lane, became involved with Neighbourhood Watch when she was burgled shortly after her husband’s death two years ago.

Last week, Pam attended a Community Crime Fighter training course organised by the Department of Justice.

Pam said: “People may say there is not much crime in Cranham, but it is increasing all the time.

“Even if there is only one crime, it is too much.

“The more people that join the group, the more effective it becomes, as the whole area really becomes a no-go area for any would-be burglars.”

On her course, Pam learnt about the support a community can demand from its police team, the rights of victims of crime, how to deal with anti-social behaviour, how prosecution and sentencing decisions are taken and how community pay-back sentencing works.

Pamela added: “I am surprised to discover just how much power citizens now have to ensure that the police and/or local authority tackle local crime quickly and I invite any Cranham residents who have concerns about this issue to contact me.”

If you want to join Pam’s Neighbourhood Watch group, read morehere.

Email: havering@yellowad.co.uk