RESIDENTS are being asked to be the eyes and ears of a town's Christmas lights after problems with vandalism in previous years.

Richmond's Christmas lights in Friary Gardens are to be switched on on Friday (November 27) and this year a Friary Fairy Light Watch has been set up to protect them for everyone to enjoy.

Richmond Safer Neighbourhood Police team, Safer Richmondshire Community Safety team and the Richmond Duck Club hope it will see an end to the damage caused to the display over the last few years.

Local groups are being encouraged by the police to take part in the scheme which is based on the principles of a Neighbourhood Watch - but for a short term and a specific issue.

Anyone passing the gardens is simply asked to keep an eye on the lights and report anything concerning or any damage they see - as soon as they see it – by calling the police on 101.

Work has been undertaken in and around Friary Gardens this year to reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour and it is hoped that this additional scheme will help keep the lights safe.

Acting Sergeant Gary Treweek of the Richmond Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "The Police are committed to regularly patrolling the gardens and surrounding area while the lights are in place but we cannot be there 24 hours a day.

“Through the hard work of the Richmond Duck Club the lights are a great attraction for residents and visitors - but for some they could be a focus to cause damage.

"After the problems of 2014 many people in Richmond were angered by the damage caused - we want to put that passion for the lights into this proactive scheme."

He added: “Anyone damaging the lights or causing trouble over the Christmas period should be warned – actions have consequences so think twice.”