MORE than 350 people visited a crime prevention shop in Stourport.

The multi-agency shop provided information from West Mercia Police, as well as advice from other organisations in the Wyre Forest Community Safety Partnership.

It had a theme of Love Thy Neighbour, with the emphasis on how close-knit communities keeping an eye on each other’s homes and vehicles could help deter burglaries, thefts, and other offences.

The one-stop community shop was located in the former Animal SOS charity shop in High Street, from February 19 to 23.

A number of organisations took part in the initiative and there were also children’s colouring and poster design competitions, with prizes including tickets to the West Midland Safari Park and cinema vouchers.

PC Steve Yapp said a total of 357 visitors were recorded, more than 70 property markings were completed and 20 inquiries were received from people interested in joining or setting up Neighbourhood Watch groups.

PC Yapp said: “The event was a huge success. The town centre was very busy, due to half term, and a lot of people took the opportunity to drop in.

“We are very grateful to our partners for their support, and are discussing with them the possibility of running another event later in the year.”

Some of the children’s prizes were donated by the ContinU Trust consortium of schools in Wyre Forest and Hagley.

Collaboration co-ordinator Michael Conroy Harris said: “The ContinU Trust is always delighted to support thought-provoking local initiatives like this. Anything that helps strengthen communities is a good thing."