Town team take to the streets

A new police team dedicated to patrolling Huddersfield Town Centre has hit the streets.

Around fifteen officers have been put in place to specifically deal with issues such as purse dippers, aggressive begging, traffic offences and anti social behaviour.

Sergeant John McFadzean is leading the team and says it will comprise of PCs, PCSOs and student officers.

"These officers are in addition to those in the Neighbourhood Policing Team who already cover the Town Centre. The new team is designed to meet the needs of businesses, residents and shoppers whilst also being a good platform for new officers to learn.

"It is aimed at providing reassurance and support to the Town Centre during both the day time and night time economy. Officer will be pro-active, tackling long and short term issues that affect the ambience of the Town.

"Liaising closely with the Town Centre community they will provide a presence which should ensure that workers and visitors feel safer. The team will also deter and disrupt the activities of those who seek to cause problems or commit crime. Some of the key issues we will be dealing with include problem premises and those involved in counterfeit goods. We are also centring efforts on areas we know attract anti social behaviour.

"The extra officers will mean an increased visible presence and encourage a level of reassurance to those who visit. In turn, I believe it will have a positive impact on the businesses that operate in the centre by adding a further confidence to trading.

"It is important that Huddersfield Town centre remains a fun and vibrant place to be and we will do our utmost to meet the needs and expectations of those who use it."

For further information, please contact Andy smith in the Kirklees Police Press Office on 07709 398664