West Mercia Police Chief Constable speaks out to reassure the public
Chief Constable David Shaw has spoken out to reassure the communities of Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire following disorder in London, Birmingham and other cities.
"In light of the disturbances in other parts of the country, West Mercia Police has been preparing to respond to any incidents that may arise across the force area. I have to stress that there are no indications that any disorder will take place and we hope and expect that the streets of our towns and villages will look and feel completely normal.
"However, it is clearly important that while there are no indications to suggest that there will be disorder we continue to plan for any eventuality. I can assure the public that officers will be responding speedily, efficiently and robustly with anyone intent on causing damage to our communities. We have extra patrols on the streets of our main towns across West Mercia.
"I know that we can count on the support of the public and I would particularly ask young people to resist any temptation to be involved in any unlawful activities which would damage the communities in which they live, the livelihoods of people in this area and their own futures. Parents can help us by making sure they know where their children are. "
Chairman of the West Mercia Police Authority Sheila Blagg added: "The Chief Constable has our absolute support in directing West Mercia officers to act decisively when protecting the safety of people and property during any time of unrest, to restore order and bring anyone guilty of criminal behaviour to justice."
