A group of mothers trying to protect their children from gang crime has proved a hit.

ParentWatch, the group set up by 13 mums from New Addington, has seen a boost in numbers since it was first reported in the Croydon Guardian.

Mellisa Stewart, manager at the Early Intervention Team which is helping the mothers run the group, said: "We have had a lot of interest from other parents that want to join. A father has also got in contact with us who has experience in setting up community groups and dealing with schemes on community involvement.

"The coverage we have received has been fantastic. I think it could be something that could go quite far and be really beneficial to everyone."

One of the mums, Karen Wade, said: "Hopefully all this publicity will help us raise the money we need to buy some mobile phones which the parents on patrol can use to contact each other."