FOLLOWING the success of his community speed watch group, a Wordsley councillor is now aiming to tackle anti-social behaviour with the launch of Street Watch.
Councillor Derrick Hemingsley, who is also chairman of the friends group of Wordsley Park, has set up a new voluntary organisation to patrol the streets of the ward.
The group aims to provide reassurance to the community, as well as engaging with them to discover their issues in a bid to reduce anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Hemingsley said: “I have worked very closely with West Midlands Police and our local community in setting up our successful monthly Speed Watch.
“Now the Friends of Wordsley Park committee have agreed to start Wordsley Street Watch, with the help of the police.
“Street Watch will provide a visible presence and aim to prevent crime by increasing visibility and maintaining a caring and cohesive community.
“We also hope to maintain a feeling of safety, by promoting a sense of security and community spirit.”
Fellow Street Watch member and Wordsley Councillor Paul Brothwood is urging members of the public to join the group.
He said: “It is a great idea to have a group like this in our community with people like myself who have gone through the police training.
“We have seen a rise in graffiti and littering since the police presence across the ward was reduced so not just having street patrols, but also litter picks will help us combat these issues.
“It is something I would urge other residents to get behind.”
The group’s first outing took place at Wordsley Park, between 10.30am and 12.30pm on Saturday (July 11), when Cllr Hemingsley was joined by other members of the park’s friends group.
He added: “Our community spirit was evident on Saturday as we combined a litter pick within the park for our first Street Watch meeting.
“My vision is that we increase our volunteer numbers over the next few months so we can add additional patrolling and problem solving in keeping Wordsley a safe place to live in.
“If any local residents want to join us in our Street Watch, volunteers are asked to commit two hours every month to patrol.”
For more information about the group, or to volunteer, call Cllr Hemingsley on 07771 977746 or email Cllr.Derrick.Hemingsley@dudleymbc.org.uk
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