ROAD safety, anti-social behaviour and rural crime are among concerns that have been raised with police by residents in the Thornbury area.
Mark Shelford, Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset, visited the area in a day organised by Luke Hall MP on Friday, September 8.
In the morning, they met with campaigner and former police officer Joanne Shipp, to discuss efforts to set up a neighbourhood watch in Rockhampton.
Mr Hall and Mr Shelford also met with members of the Thornbury Allotments Group, to discuss police presence in the town and efforts to combat anti-social behaviour.
Other issues raised by residents included, tackling rural theft and trespassing on farmland and allotments, the use of e-scooters and road safety concerns along Thornbury High Street, Rock Street and in rural villages.
Speaking after the meeting, Ms Shipp said: “I have been the Neighbourhood Watch coordinator for Rockhampton for 27 years, after serving as a police officer with Avon & Somerset police for 10 years.
“During this time I have seen many changes, communications have been enhanced by the use of email, observations have benefited greatly with the use of camera technology (ANPR) both in vehicles and static versions.
“The thin blue line which I grew up with has been stretched to extremes especially in rural areas which is why I believe the contribution I and other volunteers make to crime prevention cannot be overstated.”
PCC Mr Shelford said: “I had the pleasure of meeting with MP Luke Hall recently to discuss concerns in his area.
“I also met some residents including a resident of Rockhampton Joanne Shipp who is setting up a neighbourhood watch in the village.
“Residents expressed safety concerns around the pedestrianisation measures on the High Street, the increasing use of e-scooters and anti-social behaviour.
“These are all areas I am keen to understand and work with the local police and council to address.
“Thank you to everyone who came along. Together we can tackle the issues and make communities safe.”
Mr Hall said: “Our PCC is proactively addressing local concerns in South Gloucestershire.
"I was pleased to hear his assurances that Thornbury and our villages along the River Severn will continue to receive support from the local beat team.
“With an expanded rural crime unit and hundreds of new police officers recruited, our communities can feel safe and secure.
“I would like to thank our local beat team for all their work and support in the area.”
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