AN AWARD recognising the vital role of Neighbourhood Watch has been launched.

Essex chief constable Jim Barker-McCardle and police authority chairman Robert Chambers decided to create a ‘Co-ordinator of the Year Award’ for volunteers who provide reassurance and support to households.

Across the area there are more than 8000 volunteers helping to reduce crime, the fear of crime and also advising residents on help and support.

Residents are invited to nominate co-ordinators they feel have demonstrated excellent service in their community.

Chair of the Neighbourhood Watch Association Alan Johnson welcomed the initiative. “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 voluntary co-ordinators give to their communities”.

Nominations will be judged and one candidate from each district will be put forward for the prestigious award.

All candidates will receive a certificate of appreciation at a ceremony hosted by chief officers in December this year.

Det Supt Ewen Wilson said: “Tackling criminals and making our communities safer is not something Essex Police can achieve alone. We need the support of our voluntary partners such as Neighbourhood Watch to be our eyes and ears within communities.

“These awards will recognise the impressive contribution to reducing crime that Neighbourhood Watch makes across the county day after day”.

To nominate a co-ordinator, download a nomination form from the Essex Police website at essex.police.uk/nhw.

Completed forms should then be emailed to the contact in your area (listed on the website) or handed in at your local police station by November 21.