A charity four wheeled police initiative that aims to prevent and reduce the fear of crime for the vulnerable and elderly living in Swindon and Wiltshire has banked a welcome boost from high street bank, Barclays.

The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust is a mobile van service, which helps to crime-proof vulnerable residents' homes by installing a range of security measures free of charge.

It has now received a cheque for £5,000 from Barclays to help continue its good work.

The three vans are manned by skilled locksmiths/carpenters and are trained crime prevention officers.

They have been in operation since 1998, travelling across the county providing practical help and support to thousands of households.

Rowena Mawle, Barclays Old Town branch manager, personally became aware of the initiative when one of her customers mentioned how invaluable the service had been following a recent burglary.

Rowena said: "Barclays has been associated with The Bobby Van Trust for many years.

"I know from speaking with my customers that it makes a real difference in the community following a distressing time by helping them feel safe in their own homes.

"We are delighted to have been able to continue our support to The Bobby Van Trust since 2000, and now we have donated more than £25,000 during that time."

Crime figures suggest that Bobby Vans have had a big impact in reducing incidents of crime particularly in cases of repeat victimisation and secondary burglaries.

The Trust has never had a re-offence occur on a property it has safeguarded.

Jennie Shaw, director at the Wiltshire Boby Van Trust, said: "We are delighted that Barclays continue to be a major supporter which is extremely important.

"The Barclays donation will enable us to continue to support the elderly, disadvantaged and vulnerable members of our community, safeguarding them in their homes, practically and emotionally."

"Since our conception we have made a significant difference to nearly 7,000 victims of crime.

"Our work is vitally important to our community and it is because of sponsors such as Barclays we are able to continue to offer this service."

In 2005 Barclays global commitment to the community amounted to £32m, which includes one per cent of UK pre-tax profits.

The bank encourages employee involvement through its volunteering grant giving, matching pound for pound for various funding schemes.

Around 25,000 of all Barclays employees from around the world took part in community activities in 2005.

For further information on Barclays Community Investment Programme, contact via elaine.arnold@barclays.com