Decline in anti-social behaviour over Christmas

Cheshire East Council joined forces with Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour over Christmas. Officers from the Authority joined regular police patrols, targeting alcohol-related violence, burglary, shoplifting and drink driving.

Home safety assessments were also carried out to advise residents of how best to protect their homes over the Christmas and avoid a break-in and late night, high visibility patrols also took place across Cheshire East to reassure local residents.

In Wilmslow, incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour over Christmas dropped by 17% from 141 anti-social behaviour incidents in December 2008 to 117 incidents last month. However some areas, such as Macclesfield and Poyton, actually experienced an increase in crime due the a large number of reported incidents of inappropriate snowball throwing.

Cheshire East Deputy Leader, Brian Silvester, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Safer and Stronger Communities said: “This has been a very successful campaign for all concerned. The constant presence of Cheshire East Council Community Wardens, the police and fire and rescue sent out a clear message that crime and anti social behaviour would not be tolerated in this area over the Christmas period.

“I would like to thank all those involved for their hard work during this time and I look forward to working with our partners on successful joint partnerships in the future.”

Cheshire Police’s Chief Inspector Peter Crowcroft added: "Our officers were on the streets in local neighbourhoods 24 hours a day, working to keep you, your family and your friends safe from crime, violence and drunk drivers.

“We know that a strong police presence makes a big difference to helping people feel safe and that regular patrols make a big difference. Uniformed officers also ventured into local pubs and bars, offering support to licensees and dealing with anyone who threatened the safety of others and the peace of our neighbourhoods.