NEIGHBOURHOOD watch schemes aimed at reducing crime in rural areas are now up and running in Worsthorne and Cliviger.

Following a well attended meeting of residents on March 19, volunteer co-ordinators came forward to run the schemes which cover over 100 properties and farms in the areas.

Four schemes already centre on the Bouldsworth, Hillcrest, Lindsay Park and Southward bottom areas.

PCSO Dave Johnson said: "Neigh-bourhood Watch is a great way of the local police obtaining information on possible criminal activity, fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour in areas such as these.

"Some of these schemes have been running for a few years now and there has been an increase in public satisfaction in the area due to incidents reported to the police being significantly lessened."