All the latest from Neighbourhood Watch

In the latest newsletter, RNHW Chairman Charles McIlwrick said he is pleased with the way things are going with many new members and businesses taking advantage of the benefits the exclusive Privilege Card has to offer.

Charles said: “Following the launch in January and the reports in the Observer I am very pleased to say that many residents have come forward to assist us and volunteer to be co-ordinators.

“This is very encouraging.

“We have seen success in a number of areas in Bexhill. In one area, Betty Poplett (a co-ordinator for many years) embraced our newly invigorated scheme, which encouraged her to go out and talk to residents. As a result Betty now has nine new co-ordinators and two more people to see.

“In another area Sally Burr not only looks after her own road but has leafleted all the roads in the surrounding area with great success. The same thing happened for Sue Rochfort.

“I thank those people for their efforts and all others who give their time freely.

“I cannot forget joint vice chairman/treasurer Peter Wylie, who not only managed to get more co-ordinators in his area, thereby increasing the number of households looking out for one another, but has been instrumental in the ongoing development of our web site through the kind assistance of a friend.

“The Rother Neighbourhood Watch Privilege Card participation is growing rapidly - around 4,000 issued already.

“This free card is issued to all registered members and entitles them to a wide range of exclusive discounts and benefits with local businesses and organisations.

“We are not however sitting back on these successes. Although many residents have become new members, I encourage those who have not joined to contact us and reap the rewards.

“If you have been in touch with us but have not had any contact then I apologise; please bear with us, we cover the whole of Rother. Keep in touch and remind us of your interest.

“Finally, it would be remiss of me not to mention Trish Reeve-Foulkes, the Sergeant on the Neighbourhood Policing Team who retired last week.

“Trish has been a great help in many ways and very supportive of Neighbourhood Watch. This is borne out by the fact that although she retired she is a co-ordinator in her area and I look forward to seeing her at out meetings.

“I welcome Danny Russell the Sergeant who replaces Trish, and look forward to working closely to continue to build Neighbourhood Watch for the benefit of all residents of not only Bexhill but all of Rother”

“If you are in business, are not featured in our scheme and would like to take the free opportunity increase your customer base and get your message across, contact John Fielder by e-mail on john [email protected] or telephone 01414 214241.”

• The group’s next open meeting is on Friday April 15 at 2pm in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, Bexhill.

For more information, visit the website at www.rother neighbourhoodwatch.org.uk