Harrow's Army Of Champion Snoopers

Harrow Council's plan to recruit 2,000 residents to report graffiti, fly-tipping, litter and noise are expected to be approved this week. The scheme is similar to ones running in Islington and Hillingdon, but while these focus on environmental concerns, Harrow's "Neighbourhood Champions" could eventually be trained in child and domestic abuse and racial harrassment. Um, aren't they the realm of professionals like social workers and the police? We can't quite understand the desire to anoint a little band of 'special' residents anyway; Lewisham allows anyone to report problems across the borough, instead of allowing your neighbour carte blance to curtain twitch. (Image / sunshine indoors)