There are 4,600 Neighbourhood Watch schemes within Avon and Somerset covering around one in every four homes. Membership of these schemes means you are four times less likely to be burgled and have other advantages including bringing communities together and creating a sense of security knowing neighbours are looking out for each other. As a member of an active Neighbourhood Watch scheme you could even be offered a reduced Home Insurance premium by your insurer.  The schemes work closely with neighbourhood policing teams and other key partners to prevent and reduce crime and to support and increase membership throughout the Force area.

Speaking at the start of Neighbourhood Watch Week, Assistant Chief Constable Rod Hansen said: "Neighbourhood Watch plays a vital role in preventing crime and strengthening community spirit. It is important to recognise the good work they do every year and the benefits that membership of these schemes brings. I would encourage everyone to find out about their local scheme and, if there is not one, to think about starting one. With Neighbourhood Watch members four times less likely to be burgled it is clear that criminals are deterred from operating in areas where they know there is a community keeping an eye on them."

Neighbourhood Watch is supported by other Watch schemes including Pub Watch, Church Watch and Horse Watch and often involves other local organisations such as Parish Councils, tenants and residents' housing groups as well.

For more information about joining or starting a scheme in your local area, visit www.mynhw.co.uk or www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or ring Avon and Somerset Constabulary on 0845 456 7000 asking for the contact details of your local Neighbourhood Watch Administrator