THE Neighbourhood Watch scheme is in need of a makeover, according to research by Zurich Insurance.

The company's Way We Live Now study, which asked 1,344 UK homeowners about their neighbourhoods and wider communities, found 83 per cent of them would join their local Neighbourhood Watch group if hi-tech methods were used to keep them informed.

These methods include the use of emails, text alerts, CCTV and online forums to help combat crime in their community.

Young people questionned were particularly interested in using technology to keep the neighbourhood crime-free, with 60 per cent of 16 to 24-year-olds calling for an online community crime forum and 45 per cent wanting more CCTV in their street.

The research also highlighted concerns about antisocial behaviour and crime in communities, with one in 10 being worried about being home alone and a quarter believing car thefts and burglaries have increased in the past five years.

Of those questionned, 36 per cent wanted more neighbourhood watch schemes in their area.

For more information on joining or starting a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, call the National Neighbourhood Watch Association on 020 7963 0160 or visit neighbourhoodwatch.net