Bracknell

The Bracknell neighbourhood policing team for Martins Heron, The Warren and Harmans Water comprises Sgt Noel Thackaberry, myself, PC Angelina Martin and PCSO Steph Elvin.

At our neighbourhood forum last year, residents identified parking, speeding and other traffic problems, as well as anti-social behaviour, as their top priorities.

In response to their concerns, I and my colleagues carry out frequent patrols of the areas most affected by bad parking, particularly Harmans Water Road, Walbury Close and Uffington Drive. We have recently distributed leaflets across the area, pointing out to visitors and residents the problems caused by inconsiderate parking. Drivers who park illegally or cause an obstruction can expect to receive tickets.

With regard to anti-social behaviour, all the neighbourhood teams are taking part in Operation Lion Cub, the ongoing crackdown on youth disorder across Bracknell Forest. We are helped by members of the public who call to tell us where youths are causing a disturbance, and we direct our patrols accordingly.

There used to be problems with anti-social behaviour by young people outside the parade of shops in Harmans Water, but targeted patrols by the neighbourhood team have reduced the number of incidents.

In May, the Bracknell neighbourhood police team was instrumental in securing the closure of a ‘crack house’ in Wayland Close, Harmans Water. I’ve patrolled this neighbourhood for the past six years, and I know that drug dealing is not a big problem here. However, we’re determined to make sure it doesn’t become one, and the crack house closure has sent out a strong message that we will not tolerate drug dealers in our area.

We carry out high visibility patrols to disrupt such activities, as well as discouraging anti-social behaviour and other disorder. I would encourage members of the public to report any suspicious incidents or nuisance behaviour to a member of the neighbourhood team on 0845 8 505 505, or if you’d rather remain anonymous, to call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

We hold regular beat surgeries where residents can drop in and discuss their concerns. Look out for dates and times in your local paper.

Thames Valley Police ~ Bracknell