Police Park Patrols Help With Fall In Anti-Social Behaviour

Harborough Police say increasing patrols of parks is helping to reduce anti-social behaviour.

Officers started visiting the likes of Little Bowden Recreation Ground, Symington’s Recreation Ground and parks in Kibworth more regularly, after problems including under-age drinking and drugs misuse.

Police say the patrols will continue, along with ‘Beat Surgeries’ at the parks, where residents and park users can talk directly to officers.

Sergeant Pete Jelbert told Hfm they have also been able to talk with more young people, who say a minority have been causing the problems:

Police patrols at parks have been upped

Meanwhile, Police have teamed up with Harborough Council and the fire service to launch a ‘Safer Summer’ campaign.

It encourages people to have respect and tolerance towards others – like when having BBQs and parties in gardens.

The campaign also urges people to think about those using parks and green spaces after them, and to take rubbish home or dispose of in the bins provided.

Cllr Simon Whelband, Harborough District Council’s Cabinet lead for Communities and Wellbeing said: “This summer feels different, with the lifting of final Covid restrictions on how we can be sociable and travel looking more likely.

“It certainly feels like a summer we know people are looking forward to celebrating. We want all our residents to have a great, safe and enjoyable summer after such a difficult year, but we ask that people are considerate and respect people in their locality, and that, in return, people are tolerant of those meeting for one-off occasions.”