A NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch association is stepping up its fight against crime in a bid to gain a national title.

Darlington's Skerne Park group, formed in 1998, has developed a crime-fighting initiative for ADT National Neighbourhood Watch Week, from June 16 to 23.

To mark the event, ADT Fire and Security has launched a competition to find the best Neighbourhood Watch group.

Three regional awards are on offer for innovative groups, with each winner collecting a trophy and £500 to spend on crime prevention in their area.

The three winners will be judged against each other to find the group of the year.

Skerne Park Neighbourhood Watch Association will attempt to impress judges with a fun day and fair at Skerne Park Junior School, in order to promote their Junior Neighbourhood Watch initiative, Kids Against Crime.

Representatives from the association's committee, the police, St John Ambulance and the local Youth Council will be available to offer advice between 3pm and 4.30pm on Wednesday, June 20.

The fun day will encourage the children living on the estate to beat the criminals, protect the innocent and explain how they can work as a team to look after their community.

Tracey Gregory, Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for Skerne Park, said: "We are delighted to be taking part in the ADT National Neighbourhood Watch Week.

"This is the first scheme in Darlington to be directly aimed at kids, highlighting all issues surrounding children and crime, and we are positive it will be a great success."