A CRIME prevention scheme to cut burglaries and improve home security in east Newcastle has just helped its 600th household.

Compass Watch, funded by the Home Office, was launched last October to allow residents who have been burgled, neighbours and anyone who is worried about their home security, to have high quality crime prevention measures installed free of charge. Items such as mortice locks, bolts, door viewers, door chains and window locks are installed at no cost, regardless of income.

Police are also urging landlords to get in touch to get their properties secured before the influx of new students after the summer.

Anyone interested in joining the scheme should contact 0191-221 8278.