One new anti-crime initiative was launched and another scheme discussed for the first time at a meeting of the North Forest Crime Reduction Team in Newent on Wednesday evening.

The meeting officially launched the Rural Watch pilot scheme, which will initially focus on May Hill but could be extended to the whole of the Newent area by the end of the summer.

Newent-based rural beat officer PC Simon Bailey will now deliver information packs to addresses in the pilot scheme area, dealing with issues such as the need to report fly-tipping and harm to wildlife through to the coding of farm equipment.

The 15-strong crime reduction team is also considering a new initiative, following a request from the Home Office, to act as an advisory and awareness body to tackle cases of anti-social behaviour in the Newent area, as part of a nationwide crackdown.

Team spokesman Russ Green said: "Many people don't know what anti-social behaviour is and we can advise them on this and what action to take."

This could involve such good advice as keeping a diary of problems, so that a detailed approach can be made to the police and other authorities.

The Crime Reduction Team also could produce a leaflet to help raise awareness.