A COUNCILLOR is calling for police action to address a 'breakdown in law and order' in Rubery.

District and county cllr Peter McDonald has called on West Mercia's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) to lobby for increased funding from government to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the village.

Cllr McDonald said: "Local residents feel there has been a breakdown in law and order with car high-jacking now becoming common place.

"I have been a councillor for many years and have never experienced a time like this where crimes are not being followed through and a reference number is all you can expect from the police when a crime has taken place.

"Criminals are fully aware of the pressures the police are under and take full advantage, knowing the police now have to prioritise.

"I have called upon the PCC to make representation to the government for increased funding."

The call comes after an incident of anti-social behaviour earlier this month in the Lickey Hills involving more than 20 off-road motorbikes.

In response, police met with local residents to discuss concerns, and a meeting has been scheduled between officers, park rangers and council representatives to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

Inspector Mark Chappell, of West Mercia Police, said: "We have dedicated a proactive team of CID Officers to focus on preventing burglaries and car crime, and as a result of this there have been a number of arrests and successes. All of those arrested have not been residents in our force area.

"We also have patrols dedicated to stopping such criminality on the borders with the West Midlands Police force area, and share information with neighbouring forces daily in order to target offenders.

"In addition to this, we continue to use traditional crime prevention techniques and raise awareness of these on social media to ensure that our local communities are doing all they can to help us prevent further incidents."

PCC John Campion added: "Many of Cllr Mcdonald’s comments are inaccurate and are based upon hearsay not facts. Clear progress has been made to tackle local issues, and I will continue to ensure the police are well resourced as part of my commitment to create communities where people are safe and feel safe.

"This is proven as I not only protect frontline policing but recruit an additional 100 officers to deliver the professional service the public expect.”

A spokesman for Mr Campion's office said car jacking is not a regular occurrence and that crime in north Worcestershire continues to fall compared to last year.