RESIDENT crime-fighters have been offered £8,000 in prize money for combating crime in their community.

Those who take time out to patrol the streets and keep their eagle-eyes peeled for anyone acting suspiciously may be in for a reward.

The Neighbourhood Watch Association (NNWA) and the Norwich Union have launched a nationwide hunt to find outstanding crime-fighters.

John Howell, director general of NNWA, said: "We recognise the importance of acknowledging the endless hours of hard work that tens of thousands of Neighbourhood Watchers put into their local communities every year.

"We would like to be able to give them all an award, but it is right that we highlight the truly outstanding work that some of our members carry out and tell others what they are doing."

John Thomas, head of a Neighbourhood Watch group in Dukes Close, Gerrards Cross, has already received police praise for his keen approach to crime prevention.

He and other residents in the close parade the street up to six times a day and keep an eye out for loiterers.

He said: "I think the rewards are a good idea and recognise excellence in organising Neighbourhood Watch.

"Our patrols are very effective and you would not be able to tell whether it was someone looking out for criminals or popping down the post office."

There is a £1,000 prize offer for each of eight categories; Co-ordinator of the Year, Urban Award, Rural Award, Community Service Award, Partnership Award, Police Award, Home Secretary Award for Young People and Scottish Young Persons Award.

For entry forms call 0207 7772 3348. The closing date is July 31.