A community action group is calling on men to take part in a neighbourhood watch programme to restore hope to troubled parts of the Island.

Rise Above Bermuda is looking for men from church groups and football clubs to help with their community watch programme.

The initiative aims to support the community by walking women and children home from the bus stop, talking with people in the neighbourhood, developing strong and friendly presences in the area and spending time with grief stricken families.

Founding member Wayne Caines said: "This initiative centres around touching lives and hearts in the community."

On Thursday night they covered the St. Monica's Mission area, but they also plan to go to other troubled spots including Parsons Road and Fenton's Drive (Parkside).

But according to founding member Travis Caines it is not isolated to the Pembroke area and they hope to reach areas like St. David's or Sandys once more people get on board.

Member Antonio Belvedere added: "A lot of these guys don't have male figures and if they see men coming up to them to (be)friend them and give them a hug and say 'We're there for you'. It will make them feel a little bit better, if not a whole lot better.

"We don't need a big amount of people coming out because that would be too overwhelming. And I feel the small numbers hit a little better because it becomes more intimate, more sociable."

It is just part of a series of positive actions Rise Above Bermuda is taking to combat violence, including two mentor programmes at Victor Scott Primary and Dellwood Middle School.

* For more information or to help with the community watch programme visit www.riseabovebermuda.org.