AN award initiative is being rolled out in Essex to recognise the good work of Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators.

The county is one of the safest places to live and work in the UK, and Essex Police and the Police Authority have decided to launch the Essex Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator of the Year Award.

It is a decision welcomed by chairman of the Essex County Neighbourhood Watch Association Alan Johnson.

“We are delighted that our partners in Essex Police and the Police Authority have supported this award,” he said.

“It is a clear sign that they value the dedication and hard work that these voluntary co-ordinators give to their communities.”

There are over 8000 volunteer co-ordinators in schemes which provide support and reassurance to over a third of households across the country.

“It is recognised that crime levels reduce when there is an active scheme in place, and the fear of crime is significantly improved when people know what is going on in their area and how to seek help and support,” said Mr Johnson.

“Neighbourhood Watch also provides a means of strengthening communities and encouraging neighbourliness.”

Each of the 14 policing districts will be inviting the public and others involved in community safety to nominate co-ordinators who have demonstrated excellent service in their community.

Each district will judge the nominations and submit one as their candidate for the prestigious award, with all the other candidates receiving a certificate of appreciation at a ceremony hosted by the chief constable in December.

Nomination forms can be downloaded from the Essex Police website: essex.police.uk. Forms can be submitted online or handed in to a local police station by November 21.