THURROCK'S Neighbourhood Watch scheme, which now has a number of watches in places across Thurrock, continues to spread the word about crime prevention and has this week launched its new information-packed calendar.

The launch took place at Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner's headquarters where Deputy Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Jane Gardner offered her support for the project.

She said: "I was delighted to once again support the Neighbourhood Watch by officially launching this Neighbourhood Watch calendar. It's a really useful tool for residents and local businesses and helps to raise the profile of the great work that Neighbourhood Watch members do."

Thurrock District Neighbourhood Watch Chair: Roger Passfield added: "We at Thurrock Neighbourhood Watch have been working harder with increasing membership throughout the year.

"Thurrock is reaching 30 years this year, so I would like to take the opportunity by saying thank you for your support and if you know someone who is interested in starting a watch then let us know."

Essex Police's watch liaison officer Kevin Blake said: "I am one of four Essex Watch Liaison Officers employed by Essex Police and one of our main duties is to facilitate NHW throughout the County.

"We work closely with all members and are visibly active with major events all year round promoting not just NHW, but other watches scheme we support.

"We pass on crime data for each area plus notify members if there are any scams that are taking place.

One of the watches in Thurrock is in Aveley & Uplands and its co-ordinator Srikanth G Panjala said: "A Neighbourhood Watch member's role is not like a one day or one week or one-month service. It's a permanent role supporting our local community."

Mr Panjala also thanked Lycamobile Uk ltd who covered the cost of the 10,000 calendars.

If you would like to get involved in Thurrock Neighbourhood Watch contact the team via the Essex Neighbourhood Watch website accessible via the red button below.