Melksham did have the second highest density of NHW members in the UK, second only to Warminster, which is also in Wiltshire. Warminster boasts a high figure of NHW members because the MOD has signed up for all the "army" houses on the camp.
The county of Wiltshire returns some of the lowest crime figures.
However, perhaps because of the preponderance of NHW schemes with the majority of streets bearing the NHW signs, there is not too much crime around Melksham, and interest in NHW activities has dwindled.
The local NHW Association Committee are currently canvassing all those people who volunteered to act as Scheme Co-ordinators to establish if they are still supporting NHW.
Unfortunately, in todays fast changing world, many of these dedicated people have moved house, or passed away, or simply given up due to ill health, growing old, other commitments or no longer in contact with neighbours from the group. Therefore, several localities are now in limbo, having no contact with a street leader, the NHW network, or with the local police.
So, if you reside in one of these streets, please talk to your neighbours, appoint a co-ordinator and get in touch again.
Melksham needs you!
Membership of the Association is only £1 a year!! With lots of members we can get organised and once again distribute information on crime prevention, issue a comprehensive Newsletter, and arrange social events for members to get together and enjoy themselves whilst keeping up our vigilance.
Many NHW groups throughout the county co-operate with the police in helping to reduce crime.
All the information about Melksham & District Neighbourhood Watch is now posted on the National Neighbourhood Watch Association website