MOUNTED response patrols in parks in Newton-le-Willows are part of a new initiative to crack down on crime in St Helens.

Titled 'Operation Breathing Space', the patrols will quickly respond to complaints about bad behaviour and vandals around three key areas, Mesnes Park, Willow Park and Newton Dam. The move, part of the Newton 21 community safety initiative, funded by the Single Regeneration Budget, underlines the importance being placed on parks by the police and St Helens Council, who have recently begun major improvement works to the area.

Council leader, Mike Doyle, who is also chairman of Newton 21 SRB Board, said: "There are a limited number of people who cause trouble in the parks which are there to be enjoyed by everyone. Thousands of pounds have gone into parks in Newton and we don't want people to be put off using them because of a handful of mindless troublemakers."

The initiative, being led by Merseyside Police, is just one of a number of programmes under Newton 21 which include increased safety measures to both tackle crime and the fear of it. Others include council work to 'design out' crime in residential areas by increasing CCTV, safety locks, better fencing and lighting.

Inspector Geoff Tickle, in charge of Newton police, said: "We will patrol parks and canal banks in Newton to stop anti-social behaviour, disorder, under-age drinking and vandalism. We will be using local officers and mounted police to encourage and reassure families to use local parks. With the help of the council and local community we are confident we can improve the quality of life for all the population of Newton."

More plans are in the pipeline under the community safety partnership between Merseyside Police, St Helens Council and representatives from the private sector, which has seen a 40 per cent drop in crime in Newton and other areas.

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