Calls for police to give 'neglected' rural areas support

A LEADING councillor has called on Northumbria Police to review the way parts of Northumberland are served and accused the commissioner of a "lack of understanding" on rural life.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local democracy reporter

Northumberland County Council cabinet member Gordon Stewart said residents from across the county had raised concerns about the level of policing in the area.

Coun Stewart, the council's cabinet member for public safety, has long campaigned for the force to reopen rural stations and front desks closed as part of cost-cutting measures in 2021.

Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Susan Dungworth has hit back at the remarks, pointing out new officers have been recruited and arguing that figures show rural crime is falling.

Coun Stewart said: "The PCC closed down police stations and desks, removed PCSOs from the heart of the communities they knew so well and were respected, without having a plan to modernise and improve the service for residents, businesses and visitors to our fantastic and widespread county.

"I hear from residents on a very regular basis about their despair at the lack of policing. I have discussed this with people in various parts of Northumberland.