Mobile phones are being used in the fight against crime

The scheme began as a three month trial in one police beat area in Loughborough in Leicestershire.

It works by police officers sending out a text message to a number of Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators who then forward on the messages to members.

The success of the scheme has seen it extended to two more beat areas and there are plans for it to be extended across the town.

Messages have been able to help in situations such as keeping an eye out for specific suspect vehicles in the area.

One user who lived next door to a suspect was able to alert police when he returned home.

Users normally receive one or two messages a day but also get reassurance when everything is quiet.