THE crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers launched a new volunteer committee for Wiltshire in Salisbury today.

The charity is looking to raise awareness of the 24/7 anonymous 0800 555 111 telephone number and online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

Matthew McGinn, volunteer chairman for the new Wiltshire committee, said: “Crimestoppers makes a real difference to communities. It empowers individuals to give information about criminals safely and anonymously.

"In the short time I’ve been involved with Crimestoppers I’ve been really impressed with the enthusiasm and professionalism of those I’ve met and I look forward to working with local people and law enforcement organisations on campaigns that really make a difference to Wiltshire.”

The launch event follows last year’s appointment of regional manager for Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, Emily Van der Lely, which has already led to an increase in campaign activity and crime information received.

Wiltshire passed on over 1,000 pieces of information to the police in the area during the last calendar year, a 19.7 per cent increase, and a figure that the new committee will work to grow even further in their bid to tackle crime across the county.

Emily said: “Volunteers bring energy, enthusiasm and a concern for the welfare of the local community. They also bring their own ideas and expertise which is what helps to bring about such fantastic results.

“We encourage anyone with a real interest in Crimestoppers to join us by volunteering or by becoming a Charity Ambassador, helping to spread the message that anyone with information on crime can report anonymously.”

Since its inception in 1988, Crimestoppers has passed over 1.7 million pieces of information to law enforcement agencies resulting in over £134 million stolen goods recovered and over £332 million drugs seized.

Anyone interested in becoming a Crimestoppers volunteer can learn more on the national charity’s website – www.crimestoppers-uk.org  – and then complete the brief, online ‘Volunteer Enquiry Form’.