THERE has been a big fall in crime and anti-social behaviour in Hereford city centre this year, according to new figures.

Hundreds fewer incidents have taken place thanks to the 'Team Hereford' partnership, made up of police, council, businesses and voluntary groups.

Their approach involves a variety of initiatives, including youth activities, help for the homeless and drug addicts, CCTV and issuing official warnings.

In the six months from April to September this year crime fell 20 per cent and anti-social behaviour (ASB) was down 22 per cent compared to the same period in 2018. The number of crimes fell from 802 to 637, while ASB incidents dropped from 733 to 569.

In total that is 300 fewer incidents, or about two fewer incidents every day.

Focus has been on reducing street drinking, drug use, aggressive begging and shop theft.

Police and businesses say the benefits have not only been fewer crimes, but also positive feedback from the local community.

Inspector Greg Tudge said:"We are seeing great results in the city centre. It is great to be a part of some positive proactive policing in the city where we are making a real difference."

Mike Truelove, of Hereford Business Improvement District, said: "We are extremely pleased Hereford city centre is earning a reputation as a safe and pleasant place to work, shop and relax."

Crime cutting schemes include:

  • Vennture's Lean on Me scheme. Door staff, police and Street Pastors refer individuals to Volunteers with medical training who assess people to make sure they are safe until friends or family get them home safely.
  • No Wrong Door/YSS provide young people with follow up mentoring and support and weekly activities at the Castle Green. This provides an opportunity for to engage in various activities and to chat with youth workers.
  • South Wye Boxing Club's Fit and Fed programme ran every day in the summer holidays, providing free boxing sessions and free hot meals to young people.
  • Community protection notices and criminal behaviour orders when offers of help fail.

Team Hereford is made up of: West Mercia Police (WMP), Vennture, Hereford BID, Herefordshire Council, the Old Market, Hereford CCTV, Hereford Retail Radio, Close House Youth Centre, No Wrong Door Youth Support Services and local Church groups.