Concern over lack of police numbers (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Concern over lack of police numbers

MEMBERS of Tetbury Town Council have voiced major concerns about the dwindling police presence in the town.

After the second absence in as many months of a police representative at Monday's council meeting, the issue of policing in the area was raised.

Although there was praise for Tetbury's low crime level, with only 13 crimes reported in the town throughout the whole of December, councillors are concerned the crime-fighting success could lead to a further reduction in policing.

Councillor Murad James warned a lack of police presence could leave Tetbury and the surrounding areas exposed to criminals from outside the area.

He said: "I think its important that a reasonable police presence is maintained because otherwise we become an easy target - we need to be careful to not let ourselves slip."

Another point of concern was the lack of Police Community Support Officers. Currently Tetbury is supposed to have three CSOs but the council is only aware of one officer, who is currently on sick leave.

Town Clerk, Rodger Williams, explained that Tetbury used to have a sergeant and four police officers but that has been cut back over the years to three officers, one of whom is currently working in Stroud.

"We used to have a sergeant and 4 officers now we have 3 and one CSO and he's gone off sick and no one knew," he commented. "We do get assistance from the Royal Household Police even though they are not regular forces."

Inspector Mike Jacka, commenting on policing in Tetbury, said: "Policing levels in Tetbury have remained the same as last year during which time the crime levels have fallen.

"Policing levels are being constantly reviewed so that services can meet demand but we have a strong base in Tetbury that can provide policing to all areas of the South Cotswolds.

"In addition to the officers stationed in town local residents also benefit from the availability of patrols on duty at Highgrove. These services are available 24 hours a day, sevem days a week and are not available any other community."