IMPROVEMENTS in clearing up crime in Princetown have led to regional recognition for the village's Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, writes John Hutchins.
The Princetown NWS picked up two awards from the Devon and Cornwall Community Watch Association — the Scheme of the Year along with a certificate of excellence.
At the awards ceremony, held at the Lakeside Conference Centre at Roadford Lake, Assistant Chief Constable Paul Netherton congratulated co-ordinators Michael Fitzpatrick and Wendy Stones, who accepted the awards on behalf of Princetown NWS.
Mr Fitzpatrick said: 'There has been tremendous improvement in the village as far as crime is concerned. We had a lot of support from the police, especially PC Dave Pickles and PCSO Mark Canvin.
'Monthly newsletters have had positive results with local residents contacting the police. Acts such as vandalism, burglaries and threatening behaviour have been reduced and people have begun to feel safer again on the streets.'
He said the production of a monthly newsletter to keep members informed, regular meetings, the contribution of road wardens and dog patrols — where people out walking pets keep an eye out for any anti-social activity — have all been a positive in crime reduction.
Mr Fitzpatrick thanked fellow co-ordinators Annie Beysey, Heather Stanley and Wendy Stones and all the others involved in making the Neighbourhood Watch scheme in Princetown a success.
The scheme also received £50 to help towards its expenses.
PC Dave Pickles, Neighbourhood Beat manager for Princetown, said: 'I was thrilled to hear the news of their awards and it is deserved recognition for all their hard work. It is an example to other communities and what can be done if residents work with the police and other agencies to improve the lives of everyone in their community.'
PC Pickles said it also reflected the contribution made by other agencies involved such as the Housing Association, the parish council, West Devon Borough Council, the churches in Princetown and other local community organisations.