Police to be more visible

POLICE should have a more visible presence on the streets of Stockton Heath, Appleton, Grappenhall and district following the appointment of a new police chief for the area.
Insp Gary McIntyre (pictured) says he wants to “throw officers out of the police station” and make them more visible on the streets.
He told Stockton Heath Parish Council he was tenured to stay in the post for two years and wanted to do a “fantastic job” for the community.
People were pleased to see more Police and Community Support Officers on the streets. Residents were also being invited to see the police station in Stockton Heath, and see what goes on there.
“I have restricted the use of cars. Police officers will be out on bikes and buses, not sitting in the station,” he said.
The inspector said the main aim was to tackle crime as a priority and by detecting crime to engage with people. During the previous monthmore than 100 crimes had been detected.
Chairman Peter Walker said he had noticed more bobbies on the beat in the area.
Insp McIntyre said: “We want to involve the community as much as possible, so that people engage with us. If that happens it will make our lives easier.”
He, too, wanted to be out an about. He had been out in the village in a high visibility jacket, chatting to people.
Another priority was to tackle graffiti. Incidents were being photographed and logged. Officers were going to talk to youngsters and adults to find out who the offenders were.
Members heard that PCSO Peter Crellin had been on duty with a speed camera and had caught 100 people speeding in one day. His efforts had been concentrated on Fairfield Road and the Chester Road dual carriageway.