Shopkeepers reveal fears during MP's walkabout

Residents say they are fed up with thuggery

- BY BILL JACOBS

ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour problems in a town centre have been highlighted personally to Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw and the Government's Safer Streets Champion Linsey Farnsworth.

Hyndburn MP Sarah Smith took them around Accrington to hear directly from shopkeepers and residents fed up with crime and thuggery.

During the visit, they spoke with local business owners who've had their shops broken into and residents who are increasingly worried about safety in the town.

The walkabout focused not just on enforcement, but also on what can be done to support young people and make the town centre a better, safer place for everyone.

Mrs Smith, who is pushing for more funding for youth services, community spaces and regeneration efforts, said: “People in Accrington are sick of crime and antisocial behaviour.

“I brought Clive and Linsey here so they could see what's really going on and hear directly from the people affected.

“I'm working with local police and the community to make sure this isn’t ignored.

“Our officers are doing their best, but they need more support - and that means both stronger powers and proper investment in our young people and the town itself.

“We've also got to deal with the root causes of crime, not just the symptoms.”

Amber Valley MP Mrs Farnsworth, said: “There's no excuse for anti-social behaviour making life miserable for decent people.