CRIMESTOPPERS has launched a new campaign encouraging residents in Haltwhistle to speak anonymously about drugs and violence.

The campaign – which follows a number of drug issues in the area – aims to help boost reporting to the charity, especially by those people who are reluctant to speak to the police directly. This is often because of fear of retribution, reprisals or other reasons.

The campaign – funded by Northumbria Police and the crime commissioner and supported by Northumberland County Council – will feature on social media and run for four weeks.

Another campaign area is Hadston.

“We know it can be difficult when talking about crime, especially if it’s close to home," said Ruth McNee, North-East regional manager of Crimestoppers.

"However, the harm caused means it’s best to speak up – either directly to the police if you don’t mind giving your personal details, or completely anonymously via our charity, Crimestoppers. When you contact us, we won’t judge or ask any personal details. All we want to know is what you know. You’ll stay 100 per cent anonymous. Always.

“Our charity believes you have the right to feel safe wherever you live or work. We want to ensure people who live, work or visit this beautiful part of Northumberland know they can trust us with any crime information. We are here to help."

Ruth said that Crimestoppers, as an independent charity, had kept its promise of anonymity to everyone who had contacted it since it began in the late 1980s.

"You can tell us what you know by completing our secure, anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling our UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 which is open 24/7, 365 days a year," she said. "Your information could help protect those you love and your community from harm.”

Northumbria Police and crime commissioner, Kim McGuinness, added: “All crime is anti-social and that includes drug dealing. Nobody wants things like this happening next door or across the street. By reporting to Crimestoppers it’s all anonymous though. This is particularly important for some of our more rural, harder to reach communities where ASB can be just as much a problem as in our towns.

"I funded this campaign to help encourage victims and bystanders to come forward so appropriate action can be taken to rid neighbourhoods of these problems. The funding will also help make sure victims have access to the right support. This is all about improving the lives of those living in the area.”