CAMPAIGNERS will investigate whether a spate of burglaries within a Weymouth community is linked to the lights being out.

Residents of the Westham estate concerned about crime are being invited to a meeting which will probe what can be done to tackle problems.

Ward councillor Christine James, who is organising the discussion, said this will include whether the streetlight switch-off is linked to incidents of crime.

She has been approached by a number of residents inquiring whether a spate of burglaries at the end of last year has anything to do with the estate being plunged into darkness in the small hours.

Coun James wants to assemble all the facts before deciding the way forward and has invited police and council officials to the meeting.

Coun James represents Westham North ward on Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, which includes the area around Norfolk Road, Hereford Road and the crematorium. But she said residents in all parts of Westham were invited to the meeting.

Streetlights are now turned off in Dorset communities from midnight until dawn to save money.

Lights remain on in town centres and high crime areas.

Coun James said: “There were some burglaries in Westham at the end of last year and residents are understandably unhappy. They’ve been asking whether it could be linked to the street lights not being on.

“This has prompted me to organise a meeting where we can get all the facts and figures and make a response.

“Anyone that has concerns about this issue is welcome along.

“People are fearful and it’s only right we have this discussion.

“It may be that we a case to put to Dorset County Council.”

The meeting is at Weymouth Community Fire Station, Radipole Lane, at 7pm on Monday.