Interactive crime map site experiencing problems as millions log on

An interactive crime map has been launched to allow people to monitor criminal activity in their area. But due to popularity the site is "experiencing problems".

"Hugely popular #streetlevel crime maps getting 75,000 hits per minute so you might experience delays. Keep trying," said the Home Office in a tweet.

The interactive maps can be accessed on computers and mobile phones and enables people to view crimes, through a postcode search.

Launching the site, Home Secretary Theresa May, said: "We want people to be able to see what crime is happening on their street and to be able to tell their local police if they have concerns, and challenge them about how issues are being dealt with."

The Information Commissioner Christopher Graham (pictured) said he welcomed the tool as a means of driving accountability through greater transparency.

"Crime mapping can be an effective means of letting people know what crimes are taking place in their local area, although care needs to be taken as this can potentially have an impact on the privacy of individuals such as victims or witnesses," he said.