BETTER protection for allotment holders against criminal damage and theft has been announced as part of a neighbourhood watch scheme.

Allotment Watch uses an e-mail alert to warn gardeners of any issues they should be aware of, such as arson attacks, criminal damage and graffiti at other sites.

As well as alerting them to potential problems, the e-mails will include crime prevention advice to prevent the crimes.

The scheme started at the Manchester Drive allotment site in May last year and was so successful, it has been expanded to include the seven remaining allotment societies in Southend.

Mick Holland, neighbourhood watch co-ordinator for Southend, said: "It is a co-ordinated approach to warning allotment owners of problems, such as suspected arson attacks, criminal damage and graffiti.

"It helps put everyone on their guard because allotments get a lot of pilfering, where thieves nick what's growing there.

"Also sheds rarely have a lot of security, so we also give out crime prevention advice on how to beef up security."

The scheme has been welcomed by Jill Stone, secretary of the Gaynes Park allotment society, which covers sites in Manners Way and Rochford Road, Southend.

She said: "This is long overdue.People probably think it is just a few shrubs and plants, but people put their all into it.

"This way we can let other allotments know of any trouble and those not on e-mail, we will call to make sure everyone knows."

For more information about the scheme call Mr Holland on 01702 464199.