A NUMBER of neighbourhood watch schemes are to be launched around the town centre in a bid to reduce crime.

The project will be the first of its kind in the centre, despite the successful operation of schemes across the borough.

Watches are to be set up in Smallwood, Evesham Mews, Lodge Road and Cleeve Road and neighbourhood watch clerk for Redditch, Mel Clarke, is looking for residents to sign up.

He said: "We believe there is a need for them in certain areas, especially in the town centre and we are now looking for people interested in helping to set some up in the area."

Mr Clarke, who is based at Bromsgrove Police Station, said the town centre projects would focus on three main areas.

He said: "First of all, the schemes should see a reduction in crime and generally improve the quality of life for residents and issues surrounding it, such as people's fear and perception of crime."

He added: "It should also help with community spirit in these particular areas.

"The schemes have been set up as a pilot project and if it's successful, we shall look to set up many more projects across the town."

Neighbourhood watch schemes require a committee formed from residents headed by a co-ordinator who will have direct access to the police and would attend meetings.

Anyone who is interested in joining any of the proposed schemes can call Mr Clarke on 584888 ext 3253.