People living in Royston and the surrounding areas are invited to have their say on policing priorities over the next six months.

Herts Police's Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNT) work with local communities, dealing with short and long-term neighbourhood issues, such as antisocial behaviour and criminal damage.

They also work in partnership with agencies, including North Herts Council, to tackle many of the ongoing problems.

One of the current priorities for Royston Town and Rural Royston SNTs is rural crime, specifically burglary, theft of plants and hare coursing.

Locations of concern have been identified, and patrols have increased in these areas at key times, using local officers and county-wide resources, including the Rural Operational Support Team.

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Neighbourhood officers have also been working with bordering forces to improve intelligence around suspected offenders. This has led to stolen items being recovered and two dogs seized and one man arrested during a hare coursing operation.

Another priority for the police is to reduce antisocial behaviour involving younger people in Royston.

A patrol plan has been put in place to ensure that resources are in hot spot locations at key times, allowing officers to engage with young people.

A monthly cinema club has also been created which provides a free movie screening for 12 to 16-year-olds. These have been well-attended and feedback has been positive.

The Limitless Academy is hosting its Thursday night project, funded by Herts County Council and supported by local businesses. Sessions will increase to two a month if funding can be secured.

Police's other current priority is tackling speeding through the urban and rural areas of Royston.

The Police and Crime Commissioner's road safety van has been used as an additional resource, and Royston officers participated in a national speeding campaign in October.

More SNT officers have been trained to use the current laser speed detection device, and the Commissioner's community drivesafe scheme is being promoted.

Residents can have their say on what officers focus on in their area using the community feedback platform 'echo' at https://bit.ly/police-royston.

All feedback is anonymous, so if referring to a specific location include as much information as possible.