WEST Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) is supporting an app which gives real-time alerts to help communities to stay safe.

West Mercia Neighbourhood Watch’s We Alert app helps neighbours to keep in touch and share safety advice and updates on a range of crime issues.

PCC John Campion has invested in the app, which is free to use, interactive and customisable.

He said: “The We Alert app brings communities together, helping people to be involved in keeping themselves safe, through the sharing of real time information which enables them to take sensible precautions and work with the police to reduce crime.

"I welcome this as part of Neighbourhood Watch’s modern approach, will allows communities to play an active role, caring for others in order to contribute to a safer, more secure society.”

The PCC has invested £10,000 in Neighbourhood Watch schemes this year, which includes funding for the app.

Craig Cox, chair of West Mercia Neighbourhood Watch, said there are plans to develop the app to provide additional safety features targeting the elderly and vulnerable, and possibly introduce a means of reporting issues to the police and local councils.

Citizens in Policing lead Chief Superintendent Kevin Purcell said: "The innovative We Alert application is a fantastic tool that supports and empowers local communities to play their part in reducing crime.

"It keeps communities connected by enabling members to keep up-to-date with community concerns and report any suspicious behaviour or activity they come across.

"We therefore welcome this application as our communities are at the heart of everything we do and play a vital role in helping to tackle crime."

For more information and details of how to download the App visit westmercianw.org.uk/wealert.