News
Nov 8, 2010
Halloween patrol is a treat for South Norfolk residents
Category: News | Posted by: stevet
Halloween patrol is a treat for South Norfolk residents
Joint Halloween patrols by South Norfolk Councillors, Town Councillors and officers from Norfolk Constabulary dramatically cut back on anti-social behaviour incidents for local people at the weekend.
That was the message from South Norfolk Council and Norfolk Constabulary after it emerged that only two youngsters were caught breaking a window in Dickleburgh – the only incident in the district on the night. They were arrested for causing criminal damage.
South Norfolk Councillors Martin Wilby, Jenny Wilby, Neal Ward and Glyn Walden patrolled the streets of Harleston, Wymondham, and Diss alongside PC’s, PCSOs and District and Town councillors, all wearing 'Safer South Norfolk' fluorescent jackets. The Mayor of Wymondham joined a team out in his town to assist with patrols.
They talked to local youngsters out trick or treating and won their confidence and co-operation to ensure the night passed off largely without incident and safely for the community.
Councillor Wilby said:
"It was a great night for our community and for people power. Youngsters had fun andlocal people enjoyed their evening in peace. The only incident which did take place was responded to quickly, and those involved were dealt with."
The three towns also had their own roving reporters out and about, thanks to South Norfolk Youth Action (SNYA) radio, who were delivering updates and reports every 15 minutes on trick or treaters. They also interviewed police officers on patrol and local residents, alongside a Halloween themed playlist.
Wymondham Town Council provided their office for the evening as a base for the volunteers and for the radio to broadcast from.
Chief Inspector for South Norfolk, Tracey Prowting, said:
“I am pleased with the support and efforts put in by local volunteers on the night. Their dedication and willingness to patrol meant we were able to offer a high visibility patrols across the board, which led to the reassurance of residents both involved in trick and treating and those not. I would like to thank all involved in making the evening safe and enjoyable for all.”
Steve Thomas, from South Norfolk Youth Action (SNYA) Radio said: “The three young reporters had a fantastic experience travelling with the police during the Halloween patrols, and were able to report live from scenes, interviewing both police and residents about their Halloween experiences.
“During their broadcasts, they dealt with texts, calls and facebook updates coming in from listeners telling them what was happening in their area. We would welcome the opportunity to run this type of project again in the future after the success of this Halloween.”
For more information about policing in your area visit www.norfolk.police.uk
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