ICONIC Guardian Angel volunteers could soon be patrolling the streets of Wickford in a bid to reduce crime.

The founder of the Wick Patrol Group, made up of 80 volunteers, wants to up the ante on those hell-bent on causing anti-social problems.

The founder, who has asked to remain anonymous for security reasons, decided to set up the community group after a spike in crime on the Wick estate in August 2016 - and the group has grown ever since.

But now some members, who operate anonymously to observe and report incidents, want to join the international Guardian Angel safety scheme in a bid to become a more visible deterrent.

The organisation is the biggest voluntary street safety patrol in the world, with more than 5,000 members on five continents.

The Wick Patrol Group founder said: “Since we’ve been in existence we don’t seem to get the regular burglaries and break ins and the community feels safer knowing we are out there patrolling.

“The Guardian Angels began in New York but now have chapters all over the world including in London and Scotland.

“They wear a uniform so they are identifiable and visual deterrents of crime.

“In my view this is the direction communities are having to go in because the police have become very reactive to crime rather than proactive. We work very closely with police and have considered becoming active citizens or specials, but the issue is that is a huge lifestyle change and a big commitment.

“We all have full time jobs so it wouldn’t work, but as Guardian Angels, people would see us a recognised organisation and part of a world-wide group.”

Essex Police have advised against patrol groups. A spokesman added: “We urge the reporting of incidents, reporting of crime and sharing of any information that you may have to assist us tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

“It is of upmost importance to us that you feel safe in your community.

“If you feel that you wish to play a bigger part in looking after your community then look at our Active Citizen scheme.”