For the first time mobile phone users will be able to give information on crime anonymously by text message to a dedicated Crimestoppers number. The initiative is to be piloted in three Tower Hamlets schools.

Michael Gordon-Gibson, Crimestoppers UK bureau manager, said text messaging was a good way for young people to pass on crime details.

“We’re confident this pilot will be a success and plan to roll out to schools across London following it, with a view to a nationwide rollout in the near future,” he said. “This initiative is a great way to enable us to work with young people and encourage them to join our fight against crime.”