We are frequently reminded that the fear of crime is greater than actual levels of crime.

The oft-heard attempt at reassuring a doubting public may indeed have some substance, but actions speak louder than words.

Police this week launched the latest in a series of operations as part of their successful Target venture, but perhaps more significantly from a public reassurance standpoint two fresh crime-busting initiatives have come to the fore.

Three cab firms have joined forces to form a taxi-watch scheme, with the backing of Keighley Anti-Crime Partnership, to provide "eyes and ears" on the streets, especially at night.

And Keighley town councillors are looking at an innovative project to supply special crime-prevention kits to those identified as being most at risk from burglary.

Both schemes have strong merits and must be welcomed.

They will go at least some way towards helping allay people's fears and complement existing measures -- such as the town-centre Shoplink scheme and CCTV installations -- which have achieved notable success, in terms of both apprehending criminals and providing that public reassurance.

People are often quick to criticise the police for failing to respond to calls for help speedily enough, or indeed at all, and where these concerns are justifiable we will continue to highlight them. Sometimes the lack of response is inexcusable.

But it is important also to bear in mind that everybody -- individuals and organisations -- has a shared responsibility in the fight against crime.

We are fortunate in Keighley to have bodies devoted to the cause and businesses prepared to put their money where their mouths are and invest in measures. Keighley & District Travel, for example, has reaped dividends from its on-board CCTV cameras.

Although police are at the front line in the battle against crime, they should not be left to fight alone.

Criminals are a common enemy to every law-abiding citizen, and these latest initiatives are a prime example of "ordinary people" being prepared to do their bit.