POLICE and neighbourhood watch members are trying to encourage people in Wyre Forest to start up new schemes.

Vic Davies, who organises a scheme in Stourport's Stagborough Way, where he lives, claims Wyre Forest suffers from a lack of initiatives.

"There's a lot of apathy, and we want to stimulate some interest," said Mr Davies. "It's mostly just common sense and there is a minimum of expense.

"The best way is for 30 or 35 people to get together and do it street by street. Groups need to make sure they know when somebody is away so that, for example, dustbins aren't blocking people's drives which advertises they are on holiday."

He added: "We'll help people and a police liaison officer will go along to their first meeting."

Anyone interested in starting schemes should call Sue Savidge, the chief co-ordinator for Wyre Forest neighbourhood watch, on 01562 701016.