A new kind of neighbourhood watch scheme that aims to combat crime on canals and towpaths will be launched in Stone.
The launch of Staffordshire Canal Watch will take place between 11am and 4pm on Thursday 5th April at Aston Marina, and canal users are invited along to find out more and sign up to become a member. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service will also be on hand to talk about boat fire safety.
Those who sign up to the scheme will have access to the OWL system (On-line Watch Link), which is currently used by Neighbourhood Watch schemes, to help keep the waterways of Staffordshire safe.
The introduction of the scheme in mid-Staffordshire follows its success in the south of the county last year when it was launched in the Watling area.
Together with British Waterways officers, local police officers and police community support officers will help to patrol any hotspot areas.
Louise Jones, the Staffordshire Police Canal Watch co-ordinater, said: “Our neighbourhood officers and PCSOs routinely patrol the canal towpaths but as we have such a large network we want to encourage members of the public to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity near canals.
“The towpaths are often used by dog-walkers, joggers and people fishing and it is these regular users who can help us continue to keep crime on towpaths and canals low.
“The scheme allows members to access and share information on reported incidents in their area by email, text or by visiting the Canal Watch Facebook page – they will also receive advice and guidance on crime prevention. The official launch is taking place at the busy Aston Marina and we welcome anyone who is interested to pop down and have a chat.”
