A NEW alert system has been devised for West Yorkshire to keep residents informed of crime in their area and the positive work being done by police.

"West Yorkshire Community Alert" allows residents to keep up-to-date with local police updates, and it was launched today. (May 1)

Registration is free and people can choose to receive news and appeals, local crime information and crime prevention advice via email or text message.

Police chief inspector Richard Close said: “This is an exciting development for the force and means we can share information with our communities more easily.

“It's especially useful for members of the public who aren’t on social media, and will allow them to be updated directly via e-mail or text.

“The updates will be targeted and based on the preferences of each individual – we won’t spam people with hundreds of messages.

"The information will be based on people's postcode, their preferences and what is relevant to their interests.”

The scheme has been used successfully by other police forces. Members of the public can sign up for updates from their neighbourhood policing team or neighbourhood watch contacts, or join a number of specialised community interest groups such as business watch, wildlife crime, motorists and crime prevention.

West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, said: “Working with communities is at the heart of what we do and I welcome the implementation of this new system which will help to increase engagement and awareness.

“This additional communication tool will also further empower people to link up with West Yorkshire Police, and partner organisations.

"I often receive feedback from members of the public who would welcome further contact.

“We all have a responsibility to encourage inclusivity and build relationships in communities. These relationships strengthen our resilience and ultimately help to keep us safe which is the overall aim of the Police and Crime Plan.”

People can visit wypcommunityalert.co.uk/ to sign up.