By John Baron

Police patrols are being stepped up in Horsforth following concerns from shoppers and business owners over anti-social behaviour and abuse of shop workers.

The initiative is part of the Government’s Safer Streets summer programme, which, under the new Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, means every community has a named, contactable officer. In Horsforth, that includes PC 1358 Russell and PC 1873 Cavaliere.

Residents can expect more visible patrols at busy times and a stronger focus on addressing anti-social behaviour in the town centre.

Earlier this summer, Leeds North West MP Katie White brought together small businesses in Horsforth following a rise in break-ins.

During a visit to a local Tesco, Katie also heard first-hand from staff about the pressures created by abuse directed at shopworkers, part of a wider national challenge that unions report is increasing year on year.

Katie White MP said: “Crime and anti-social behaviour are some of the biggest issues in my inbox.

“I know how much this matters to residents and small businesses in Horsforth, and I am pleased to see our neighbourhood policing team stepping up patrols.

“Shop workers and small businesses are so important in our town and they deserve to feel safe. The new Crime and Policing Bill will strengthen protections for shopworkers and I’ve been proud to vote for it.”

The Crime and Policing Bill introduces a new offence of assaulting a retail worker, giving workers in shops the protection they need. Additionally, the bill repeals section 176 of the Anti-social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014, which downgraded the police response to so-called “low-value shop theft”.

Residents and businesses in Horsforth are encouraged to continue reporting incidents, so that neighbourhood policing teams can respond quickly and keep the high street safe and welcoming.

To report a crime, dial 999 for emergencies or 101 for non-emergencies. You can also report crimes, get updates, or use live chat on the West Yorkshire Police website. For anonymous information, use the Crimestoppers website.