DEVON and Cornwall Police have launched a new initiative to help make the community a safer place.

Community Messaging is based on information from members of the public as the police say that this is one of the best weapons in the fight against crime.

Those who sign up will receive either a recorded message or email from Devon and Cornwall Police giving details of a particular crime. For instance if a car has been stolen or a child has gone missing the details are sent out to all relevant persons on the database, so the police can be contacted if there is a sighting.

The system is also ideal if bogus callers or scammers are targeting the area, people can prevent themselves from becoming victims of crime.

Advice will also be available regarding trends in doorstep scams and crime prevention.

The system allows the police to contact a large number of people quickly and efficiently, freeing up Police officers to make other important enquiries.

Neighbourhood Beat Manager, PC Keith Bradshaw explained: "The message will always begin with 'This is the Devon and Cornwall Police.'

"The message will give a reference number and details of how to get in touch with any relevant information.

Keith added: " The Community Messaging service is a free service provided by Devon and Cornwall Police and details are held on a secure database.

"The most common messages include witness appeals, suspicious vehicles, people to look out for and details of forthcoming community events."

Anyone wishing to take part in the Community Messaging scheme can contact Keith Bradshaw (PC1344) at Crediton Police Station on 01363 772223.

Nora Parminter