Neighbourhood Watch gather at annual seminar

Aug 29 2008 by Our Correspondent, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

TAYSIDE Police’s Crime Reduction Unit in Western Division (Perth and Kinross) hosted their annual Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators’ Seminar last night.

The event took place in the A K Bell Theatre Library, in Perth.

Chief Superintendent Matt Hamilton welcome delegates on the force’s behalf and provided an introduction to the evening.

Those present heard relevant and topical inputs from a variety of speakers including the Anti-Social Noise Team, the Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches and Tayside Fire and Rescue.

Donald Campbell, Crime Prevention Officer, presented information regarding bogus caller crime and Perth Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Bob Hughes gave an input on how he runs his watch.

A local police constable also gave a talk about the day-to-day duties of a Community Crime Officer.

Sergeant Julie Robertson, from Western Division Community Safety Unit, said: “Through the mutual engagement that this type of event fosters, we aim to improve the Neighbourhood Watch framework throughout Perth and Kinross.’’

Anyone interested in starting a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in their area should contact their local Community Officer or Gail Cain, Community Engagement Officer, on 01738-892642.