Sudbury: Police call for crime fighting volunteers

Friday, January 27, 2012
11:49 AM

POLICE are calling for volunteers to become the ‘eyes and ears’ of their community, in a bid to help curb anti-social behaviour in Sudbury.

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The town council is also behind the move to encourage residents to get involved in the crime-fighting initiative, called Street Watch. As part of the scheme, members of the public will patrol streets wearing high visibility vests, looking for signs of crime, anti-social behaviour or dangerous situations to report to the relevant agencies.

The idea has already taken off in several parts of Suffolk, including Ipswich, Haverhill and Great Cornard.

The force is looking for volunteers to patrol Sudbury’s north ward, which incorporates the Melford Road, Woodhall and part of the Springlands area.

Sudbury police chief, Inspector Paul Crick, said: “This scheme is all about good citizenship – it is really taking Neighbourhood Watch on to the next level.

“Street Watch is not about replacing police officers, it is about working together to enhance the community, deter crime and to give residents a greater sense of security.”

The scheme also aims to provide visible reassurance, reduce fear of crime, provide community information and build stronger links with the local police

Sue Brotherwood, Sudbury Town Clerk, said: “We really do hope people come forward to take part in this scheme. It is something the town council fully supports and an initiative we believe could make Sudbury an even nicer and safer place to live, work and visit.”

To find out more about Street Watch, call Sudbury Police Station on 101 or email andrea.campbell@suffolk.pnn.police.uk.