A community scheme which makes everyday greetings a weapon in the fight against crime has been awarded a Team London Star by Boris Johnson.

The Meet and Greet scheme was launched in Kingston by two residents associations who wanted to increase community awareness after burglaries in Canbury doubled during summer months.

The project sees residents overcome their natural reserve and say hello, good morning and good evening to strangers in the street.

The awards recognise volunteering heroes and aim to champion those who give something back to their communities, promote local cohesion and get more people volunteering.

The mayor of London presented the award to Glen Keywood, of the Brag residents’ association and Nicola Duffey, of central Canbury neighbourhood watch, at a City Hall reception on Tuesday, March 13.

Mr Keywood said: "We were really pleased. It was brilliant, fantastic evening and the mayor did a really funny speech and there were some really inspirational people there.

"We will defiantly bring it back in Canbury for the Olympics because it was a pilot before and the Olympics is what we consider to be our next hotspot for crime in Canbury and for Christmas as well."

Mr Keywood said it would be good to see other areas pick up the scheme and would be happy to help others get it going.

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: "It is spot on that these extraordinary, selfless Londoners are being recognised for their contributions through volunteering in our capital.

"Their commitment to helping those most in need should be an example to us all."