OKEHAMPTON'S neighbourhood police team is holding regular drop-in surgeries for residents at West Devon Borough Council's Customer Service Centre in St James Street.

Officers from the team will be on hand to help people with issues on policing in their neighbourhood.

West Devon Mayor Alison Clish-Green says the new surgeries are a great example of local services working together for local people.

She 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.'

PC Matt Evans 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 Dave 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 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 Devon and Cornwall Police can be contacted on 08452 777444. In an emergency call 999.

For further information on Council services, contact West Devon customer service advisors on 01822 813600 or email [email protected]">[email protected]