ATTEMPTS to resurrect an initiative aimed at reducing crime in Darlington will take place later this month.

County Durham & Darlington Neighbourhood Watch Force Association will be holding their general meeting followed by their AGM on Tuesday, January 29 commencing at 7pm.

The meeting will take place in the village hall in Coxhoe, County Durham, and there is a car park next to the hall.

The principal guest speaker will be John Hayward-Cripps, chief executive of the National Neighbourhood Watch Network, who is travelling up from Brighton specially to meet members.

Following on from Mr Hayward-Cripps, Rona Stocks, County Durham Constabulary Crime Prevention Officer will be giving a presentation on crime prevention.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be available from 6.30pm and a small raffle will be held.

Although the board and committee have indicated they will seek re-election for 2019 ,the association would welcome new members especially a person who would be willing to stand as deputy chair or as a committee member.

Any Neighbourhood Watch member residing in County Durham or Darlington who wishes to be considered to serve on the committee are requested to apply in writing giving a broad outline of their background and what they feel they can bring to the Association.

Applications can be sent to Jim Allen, 17 Dorset Drive, Darlington, DL12LH or by email to jimb2944@virginmedia.com by January 21.

Members wishing to attend the General Meeting and AGM only, are requested to notify Mr Allen as above by January 28.