RESIDENTS are to be quizzed on crime and disorder in Richmondshire.

About 3,500 households will receive a questionnaire during the next fortnight.

The initiative is being carried out by Richmondshire Community Safety Partnership to find out how crime affects people's lives.

Lynda MacDougall, community safety co-ordinator at the district council, urged as many people as possible to take part in the survey.

"We really need this information to build up a true picture of crime in the district," she said.

Lynn Miller, chairwoman of the community safety partnership, said: "This is your chance to tell us how things really are, so that we can help make our community a safer place to live."

The partnership is required to undertake the consultation every three years. The results will form the basis of a crime and disorder strategy to be published next year.

All those who take part will be entered into a £100 draw.

Residents who do not receive a questionnaire can still make their views known by picking up a form at community offices in Leyburn, Hawes, Reeth and Colburn, in the council reception areas in Richmond, or by visiting www.richmondshire.gov.uk