EVERY household in Canewdon has vowed to help fight crime in the community.

The village has followed the footsteps of Paglesham and Stambridge, with 100 per cent of residents signing up to its Neighbourhood Natch scheme.

Since being elected for Ashingdon and Canewdon ward in May 2015, councillor George Ioannou has been working closely with parish councillors to improve the scheme's popularity.

The village, comprising of 563 houses and 2,262 residents, has 18 Neighbourhood Watch coordinators.

The scheme, which has the support of police and Rochford Council, is designed to bring residents and businesses together to improve safety.

Mr Ioannou said: “I’m delighted Canewdon has become 100 per cent compliant in the Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

“In one year, we have achieved what had seemed impossible, having three neighbouring parish councils- Canewdon, Paglesham and Stambridge- becoming 100 per cent compliant in the fight against crime and building sustainable communities.

"Thank you to the parishes, residents, the police, Neighbourhood Watch team and all the voluntary services who have taken the time to be involved."

John Metcalfe, Neighbourhood Watch member, said: “The increase in residents joining Neighbourhood Watch in the Rochford district in the last few months is a clear indication of the commitment to forge a tighter community spirit and help prevent crime in the area.

“Both Stambridge and Paglesham have a 100 per cent membership, and now Canewdon is on the threshold. Let’s keep this momentum going. “

Lynne Van Houten, parish councillor at Canewdon, welcomed the news.

She said “When George Ioannou asked Canewdon Parish Council whether it wished to be involved in the Neighbourhood Watch initiative, parish councillors were very pleased to say yes.

“We have concerns about any potential impact on the parish from the recent reduction in the number of police officers, so certainly support Neighbourhood Watch as a means of encouraging the community to be more aware of security issues and how we can all help to protect ourselves.”

Sam Willis, executive deputy headteacher of Canewdon Primary School, said the scheme ties in with the school's "core values of respect."

She added: "We feel that Neighbourhood Watch is a worthwhile organisation and it is a good way for people of all ages to get involved in making their area safe. It ties in with our core values of respect."