Lib Dems welcome crime reduction in Crays

8.40.55pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 12th Jun 2005

Liberal Democrat Brenda Thompson, Councillor for Cray Valley East, has praised the success of the Cray Valley East Safer Bromley Neighbourhood Panel, of which she is the Chairperson, in its first year. According to recently published statistics there has been a considerable reduction in the number of violent crimes, criminal damage and theft from vehicles in the local area.

The Panel which meets once a month, consists of representatives from the local Police, the Fire Brigade, Broomleigh Housing Association, Council officers, Heads of local schools, residents' associations, representatives from local estates, Travellers, Network Rail and bus companies. Individual residents have attended to raise concerns about local antisocial behaviour which have then been dealt with by the partnership. They have all been working together for the benefit of the community.

Fellow Liberal Democrat Councillor and ward colleague Martin Curry said, "Cray Valley East was the first ward in the London Borough of Bromley to have such a proactive panel and the results have reflected the importance of working together."

Liberal Democrat Leader Cllr. David McBride added, "This reduction in crime and antisocial behaviour in this area is very welcome. It reflects well upon the hard work and commitment that is being put into the partnership, but there is no room for complacency. Whilst the local Panel has beaten the targets for reducing crime this year, we need to set more challenging targets for coming years and continue to strive to achieve them."