FOLLOWING the success of a community-spirited street watch scheme in Wordsley, a second group has been now been set up to help tackle issues in Kingswinford.

Working closely in partnership with West Midlands Police, the High Acres group will see members of the community provide reassurance to the public.

Kerry Lewis, co-ordinator of the new group, said they have already had a “noticeably positive effect” on the local area since the scheme was set up.”

She added: “Many residents have come forward to share their concerns with us. Our consistent presence in the area has had a wide reaching effect on the community.

“We have supported people who have had their homes broken into, visited the elderly members of our community to provide a friendly face and address any issues they may have which are going unnoticed.

“It is fantastic to see so many local residents supporting the scheme and we are also finally building good relationships with the local kids.

“Overall the feedback from the people of High Acres has been very positive.”

Street watch members patrol the community in pairs, wearing high visibility jackets, to provide a visible presence, as well as promoting safety, citizenship and strong relations between locals, the scheme and police.

Councillor Paul Brothwood, who is a member of the Wordsley street watch group, said: “It’s great to see the community coming together and I’m happy to support in whatever way I can and to see a second street watch is fantastic news.”

A joint neighbourhood watch and public meeting is set to be held on Wednesday (January 27) at The High Acres Pub, enabling residents to voice any issues or concerns that they may have.

Local PCSOs will also be in attendance, as well as Cllr Brothwood who is interested in hearing the community’s views on the traffic issues affecting Rangeways Road and Auckland Road.