In Newton Hall figures have fallen by over 60%, Esh Winning a fall of 50% whilst in Framwellgate Moor and Pity Me a drop if over 40% has been recorded.

It is very clear to me that the continued hard work of officers, with the assistance of Community Wardens and local residents has had a real impact. We have seen incidents of anti-social behaviour drop by almost 50%.

Security officers at shops in the Arnison Centre have commented to me about the excellent work done with the police on cutting shoplifting.

I sometimes think that the excellent work of the local police isn’t fully recognised. Just because we look out of the window and don’t always see a beat officer doesn’t mean they are not there. I know for a fact that the local police team is out every day in our villages and in some cases checking up on local hotspots many times a day.

I would urge residents to contact the police and local Councillors if there are specific problem areas so that they can crack down on problems. Police and Community Together meetings are held in communities across County Durham every month and details can be found on the police website at www.durham.police.uk

When the latest meeting schedule is published I will add it to my blog.