THOUSANDS of people across Hartlepool are being targeted in a drive to bring Neighbourhood Watch into the 21st Century.

The Ringmaster 10,000 campaign aims to create the largest community intelligence network in the town by providing members with up-to-date crime information through the Ringmaster computer system.

Everyone who signs up to the scheme will receive information about criminal activity in their area, either by text message, email or telephone, at a time that suits them.

The introduction of the Ringmaster system in Hartlepool is a major step forward for Neighbourhood Watch and one that is expected to have a positive impact on crime in the town.

"We want to change the perception of Neighbourhood Watch," said Inspector Peter Knights, of Cleveland Police.

"We are offering a new and improved scheme, which will remove the image of the nosy neighbour and replace it with one that stands for people who are dedicated to tackling crime."

Brian Neale, of the neighbourhood policing community co- ordination support team said: "Ringmaster is piece of software that allows us to get direct into people's homes and tell them about important things taking place in their area."

The system has been introduced by Cleveland Police and is being managed by the Safer Hartlepool Partnership.

To become a member visit www.hartlepoolnhw.org or contact the team on 01429-405577.