Town hires wardens to combat antisocial behaviour

Neighbourhood wardens are set to take to the streets of Redditch in a move designed to help combat antisocial behaviour and support the local community.

Former police community support officer Heather Bridgwater took up her post earlier this month, with a second warden due to be hired by the borough council.

She said she was excited to start meeting local residents and while different from her policing role, it would still be "supporting the strong sense of community in Redditch".

The council has put aside £100,000 for the next three years to fund the roles, which includes a vehicle and equipment.

"I am looking forward to developing this new service with colleagues and getting out and about in neighbourhoods across the borough," Bridgwater added.

Labour council leader Sharon Harvey said the posts would fulfil a comittment made in the party's manifesto.

"We are committed to investing in Redditch and its communities and to ensure that the borough is a place in which people are proud to live," she said.

Councillor Monica Stringfellow, whose portfolio includes Community Safety, added: "It is important to have that visible presence in our neighbourhoods to provide reassurance and a familiar face for our residents to talk about their concerns."

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