Commissioner and MP walk the beat in Lytham

Commissioner Grunshaw and MP for Fylde Andrew Snowden joined officers on the beat in Lytham last week. Issues discussed during the visit ranged from anti-social behaviour (ASB), drug use and the night-time economy to shoplifting and missing persons, a particular concern over the summer months due to increased visitor numbers along the sea front.

The visit also highlighted the work being carried out locally as part of the national Safer Streets Summer initiative. The Home Office initiative, led locally by Police and Crime Commissioners, Chief Constables and local authorities brings together police and partner agencies to target reductions in town centre theft, street crime, and ASB through high‑visibility policing and public engagement.

Officers highlighted their work to prevent and detect crime and how they link in with partners such as the local council and its licensing team where appropriate.

Following the visit, Commissioner Grunshaw said: “It’s always a pleasure to meet our local officers and to see the passion they have for keeping our communities safe. I was delighted to speak to the area’s PCSO and to hear that he has served with Lancashire Constabulary for 19 years; we can’t underestimate the value this brings in terms of connecting with the local community and the intelligence gathered through that connection.

“Connecting with MPs across Lancashire is equally important. Working together helps us better understand issues that local residents raise but may not report to the police, and it also ensures that local concerns can be taken forward and raised at national level in Westminster.”

MP for Fylde Andrew Snowden added: “It was great to be back out with our officers in Lytham, hearing first-hand about the challenges they face and the work they’re doing to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. People in Fylde rightly expect to see a strong police presence keeping our town centres and seafront safe, particularly over the busy summer months. I’ll keep working to make sure we get the police resources we need to have a more visible policing presence in our area.”

The Safer Streets Summer Initiative runs from 30 June to 30 September.