BEXLEY pooches and their owners are joining forces with the police in a new scheme.

Neighbourhound Watch will operate on a similar basis to other community safety schemes except it will focus on dog walkers reporting suspicious behaviour.

Police believe dog-walkers are more likely to spot criminal behaviour as they are out at various points throughout the day.

More than 50 dog walkers have already signed up to the scheme.

Bexley Police's Sergeant Mark Rudd said: "As dog walkers tend to be out-and-about and throughout the day, from early mornings through to late evenings, they are more likely to see or hear things relating to crime or anti-social behaviour.

"We ask they report anything suspicious immediately to their local policing team.

"Our aim is to reduce the opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour to occur and build a community spirit where dog walkers can contribute towards the protection of their neighbourhood."

For more information, call 020 8721 2576 or attend the launch event on Friday (December 13), at Pets At Home, Tower Retail Park in Crayford Road, Dartford or email Sidcup.SNT@met.police.uk