First Public Forum in Frome is a success

THE first public forum with police and crime commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens and chief constable Nick Gargan has been hailed a success with residents in Frome.

In a two-hour session councilors, police volunteers and residents heard from PCC Sue Mountstevens and new chief constable Nick Gargan as well as the area’s district commander Nikki Watson.

A presentation by chief superintendent Nikki Watson highlighted that crime in Somerset East is falling, with 251 fewer crimes a month and in Frome 37 fewer crimes in a month compared to 2008.

Speaking after the event Sue Mountstevens said: “I am really pleased that so many people came along today to speak to us and to ask questions. It is important to me that I make the Constabulary and myself as accessible as possible.

“We are having these public forums every other month across the whole police force area. We will be trying different venues and different times to see what works best for local residents.

“I have said before that I am the communities’ voice in policing and unless I hear from people about their concerns or issues I cannot raise the things that matter to them. This is just one of the ways I will be listening and making myself available to residents.”

Chief constable Nick Gargan said: “The forum was lively, well attended and a very useful opportunity to shape our future planning. It sets out the way we intend to work be open, transparent and ready to listen.”

Questions at the public forum ranged from police funding, PCSO numbers, Frome police station and community speedwatch. A transcript of the key themes and answers will be available on the PCC website – www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk. A video of the meeting and the presentations that were given will also be on the website.

The next Public Forum will take place in Bristol (venue to be announced) on June 25 at 1800.