A NEW crime prevention scheme launched on Bretch Hill, Banbury, in May is being extended to other areas of the town.

Neighbourhood Management, which sees the police working with residents and other groups to tackle local issues, is to operate in the town centre, Cherwell Heights, Grimsbury, and Easington.

Police say the scheme will give each area a tailor-made service to help residents feel safer.

Police spokesman Victoria Bartlett said the new scheme would concentrate on priorities highlighted by members of the public.

She said: "Under the scheme, Thames Valley Police will provide officers dedicated to each area. People will be able to work with them to tackle the issues that worry them most."

A series of public meetings will enable members of the public to air their concerns, and more than 800 questionnaires will be handed out. The papers will ask residents to list the problems they think need urgent attention.

Working groups, consisting of residents, councillors, landlords, and police, will be formed in each area to collect and pass on the worries of local people.