Last week, the Journal reported that Neighbourhood Watch regions 22 and 23, which cover parts of Ringwood bounded by Oban, Wonga and Plymouth roads, Mullum Creek and Maroondah Highway, would close unless a final meeting secured additional members.

Member Ken Rosenhain was overwhelmed by the community's support. "I felt very pleased and proud that the community could respond to a call for help.

"I also was pleasantly surprised by the attendance and interest of a diverse group of people. I thought if we had four to five [new members], that would have been good. I am also very pleased that a tradition that has reached nearly 20 years of service will survive."

Mr Rosenhain said the new members consisted of residents of all ages and cultural backgrounds.

He said the group was an important aspect of the community to help reduce crime in the area and "to get the community looking out for each other in preventing and/or reporting crime".

Neighbourhood Watch regions 22 and 23 meet bi-monthly. Details: Ken Rosenhain, 98762619, or Hedley Deacon, 98122422.