PRESTONDALE Neighbourhood Watch chairman, Anton Muller, believes neighbourhood watch groups help reduce crime by observing and reporting crime and suspicious activity in the area. His observation certainly bears testament to the neighbourhood watch who have kept the area crime-free for more than 50 days.

Muller said key to the success of the group has been the community involvement.

“The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size but by the depth of their commitment to make a difference. That’s the difference within our neighbourhood watch, the residents are organised and want to be involved. We’ve had an incredible run where there hasn’t been any criminal incidents which is testament to our patrollers and the way we police the area. It’s about how well we’ve responded and our determination to make a difference. We also have a great relationship with the police,” he said.

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The watch meets regularly to discuss strategies and to highlight issues affecting the community.

Another resident, and founding member of the watch, Mark Steyn said it has been encouraging to see the resurgence of the watch.

“When we began the watch 15 years ago, it started out well and sort of fizzled out. However the resurgence of the watch has made a massive difference. We’ve managed to bring down crime incidents which is fantastic. We are excited with how well we’ve progressed. I work from home and I’m involved in day patrols, and residents see us out there and are interested in what we do. We are passionate about this community and we’d encourage more residents to join in and be a part of the watch,” Steyn said.

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