A SPATE of crime has prompted residents to set up a neighbourhood watch group to help combat thefts in the area.

The group has been formed in Great Harwood over concerns at the increase of people trying to steal from cars and homes.

The new organisation which will carry out regular patrols and hold meetings in the area.

A spokesman for the group said: “People are just being opportunistic and trying car and house doors to see what they can steal.

“It’s about educating people about the dangers and trying to deter criminals from acting.

“I was shocked at how many people got involved, it’s just spiralled and gone crazy.

“It’s great to see the number of people who have got involved with it.

“It’s just like the old times where everyone comes together and looks out for everybody.”

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The group, which has more than 800 members on Facebook, has a collection of neighbourhood watch stickers and UV pens to give out to people in the area.

The pens are used for people to write their address on items, which can then be seen by police if they are stolen and recovered.

A number of home security packs including dummy CCTV cameras, window and door alarms are also being offered by the group to give to the elderly and those who live alone.

The spokesman said he was inspired to set up the group after seeing the ‘lack of police response’ after five offences within one week around Russell Place.

He said: “It’s all became quite a problem in the area.

“It’s time to educate people these things have been happening again and again.

“It’s time for people to take it upon themselves and do something about it.

“There’s no police around anymore.

"Years ago we had another station just for Great Harwood with eight to 10 officers in.

“Now there’s just no officers.

"It’s not the police’s fault, they just don’t have the numbers because of the cuts.”

It has been registered by the official Neighbourhood Watch Scheme and spoken to local police and councillors about work it is doing.

Cllr Gareth Molineux, who represents Great Harwood on Hyndburn Council, said: “It’s great they’ve had that sense of community to take it upon themselves.”