The idea is being considered by police and council chiefs after a spate of break-ins at allotments in the East Shields area.

Figures released by police reveal since February, 27 incidents have been reported to officers.

In the meantime police are issuing advice to allotment holders on how to keep their property safe.

Neighbourhood Inspector for East Shields Peter Sutton said: "This is an unusual one, and perhaps symptomatic of increased security elsewhere leaving allotments more vulnerable.

"These kind of break-ins could also be linked with a down turn in the economy, making premises with even small value goods a potential target for criminals.

"Crime continues to fall in the East Shields, Boldon, Whitburn and Cleadon areas, but criminals are always looking for that easy touch, hence today's warning."

Police are now working with South Tyneside Council's Community Safety department as part of the Multi-Agency Problem Solving Group to look at creating an allotment watch scheme.

Already similar schemes for other areas are proving a success.

Recently, licensees in East Shields joined forces to launch Offwatch – aimed at helping police tackle youth disorder related to underage drinking.

Coun Joanne Bell, lead member for safer and stronger communities, said: "Theft from allotments can leave owners devastated.

"Our community safety team is working with the police to find a way of addressing problems such as theft and vandalism at plots, not just in the East Shields area, but throughout the bnorough."