Okehampton's neighbourhood police team is holding weekly drop-in surgeries for residents at West Devon Borough Council's customer service centre in St James Street. Every Monday between 2pm and 4.30pm, officers from the team will be on hand to help people with issues on policing in their neighbourhood. West Devon mayor Cllr Dennis Bater says the new surgeries are a great example of local services working together for local people. He said: 'The borough council's customer service centre is an ideal place for the police surgeries. 'We all have a service to provide and we're delighted that our local neighbourhood police team are joining us every week.' PC Jonathan Ludwig of the Okehampton police team said the surgeries are an ideal way to discuss concerns which have an impact on the community. He said: 'There are sometimes issues that have a negative impact on the quality of life of a community, but for a variety of reasons they have not been brought to the attention of the police. 'These could include anti-social behaviour, vandalism, parking problems or neighbour disputes. By making us aware we can work together in providing a solution.' Local police Inspector David Hammond added: 'Neighbourhood policing puts community issues and priorities at the heart of local policing. 'By listening to each community's unique needs and concerns the Force is able to ensure that the right resources are used in the right places and at the right time. 'The new drop-in surgery in Okehampton provides a convenient, comfortable location where members of the community can talk to their neighbourhood team and discuss any issues they might have, with the police, partners and community working together to ensure an appropriate response.' For all non-emergency incidents, police can be contacted on 08452 777444. In an emergency call 999.
