Lowdown on policing pledge

19 November 2009

POLICE pitched a stall at Queens Market answer questions from shoppers about what they can expect from the force.

Newham officers put up their mobile police station on Green Street to hold mini-surgeries with the public about their policing pledge.

Armed with literature on the pledge and free promotional gifts, members of the Central Safer Neighbourhood Team Quadrant approached shoppers to tell them what the group can do for the public.

The team, which covers the Boleyn, Plaistow North, Plaistow South, Green Street East and Green Street West, chose the Market as it is the focal point for the whole community.

Also spreading the word of police promises were the safer transport unit and the cadets.

Supt Sean Vickers said: "The reaction from the community was extremely positive and I believe we reassured a large number of people about how committed we are. It is important to engage with the public in positive settings, to break down barriers and build stronger relationships.

"Working with the community is an instrumental part of effective policing, so spending time in one of Newham's busiest areas was invaluable", he added.

"We plan to do more days like this across the borough, as it was clearly a great success.