Fears as funds for PCSOs could run out

FUNDING for community policing in part of North Lincolnshire could run out early next year, sparking fears from community workers.

The resident-led Acorns Neighbourhood Management Path Finder group supplied a chunk of funding for three Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in 2006.

Since then the officers, who all work in the Westcliff, Riddings and Manor Farm estates have helped tackle anti-social behaviour and got involved in local projects.

But with the cash set to run out in April 2010, there are fears the area could lose its officers.

Peter Woodcock is a member of Acorns and runs youth crime beating football scheme Fairplay.

He said: "I want to tell people what an amazing job the PCSOs do, they have made real improvements here."

"They come along to Fairplay every week and they have made such great progress with the kids.

"Those who used to run away as soon as they saw a police officer stop and talk instead now, it has built real respect in the kids."

Mr Woodcock said he thought it was vital the area got to keep its officers after April.

"We are worried the funding might not be there, although nothing is decided yet, but we really need them," he explained.

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