A CRIME-fighting businessman is helping to keep his community safe by launching a new guide to help people protect themselves and their property. Owners of Newport-based design company Creative Solutions, Jeremy Rose and his wife Tricia, have self-finance

A CRIME-fighting businessman is helping to keep his community safe by launching a new guide to help people protect themselves and their property.

Owners of Newport-based design company Creative Solutions, Jeremy Rose and his wife Tricia, have self-financed a 12-page leaflet entitled Newport - As Safe As We All Make It.

"Although crime in Uttlesford is low compared to many other areas in the country there were still 121 crimes reported in Newport last year," said Mr Rose.

"I produced the leaflet to show how through being extra vigilant, we can all help to make our community an even safer place in which to live and work.

"I also wanted to clear up the confusion of where to turn to for help and advice, now that Newport police station has closed, by producing one publication which contained all the necessary contact numbers."

The leaflet, which is being distributed to 2000 homes and businesses in Newport, gives useful advice on how to prevent burglary and vehicle crime, as well as tips on personal safety, how to deal with bogus callers, useful contact numbers and how to report a crime.

The scheme is being supported by the neighbourhood policing team and it is hoped the leaflet will help to keep crime levels low in the community.

According to Essex Police, criminal damage to property and vehicles were the most common crimes reported in Newport last year together with thefts and burglaries of business and industrial premises, with 43 reported instances in the last 12 months.

Community safety officer for Uttlesford District Council Yasser Alromisse said: "Everyone in the community plays a role in keeping the crime rate low and Jeremy's leaflet is an excellent way of showing people how they can help with this and also the best places to turn to for help and support."

The Neighbourhood Specialist Officer for Newport is PC Dawn Bamford who can be contacted at Saffron Walden Police Station on 0300 333 4444.

For further information or to obtain a copy of the leaflet contact Jeremy on 01799 541114 or e-mail jeremy@c-lutions.co.uk