Police to step up patrols (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Police to step up patrols

4:19pm Friday 4th July 2008 in News By Tony Donnelly

POLICE are to step up patrols on a Tewkesbury estate said to be at the centre of a drugs war, it was announced today.

High visibility patrols will be mounted in Prior's Park from today until Thursday July 17..

The news comes in the same week that local residents and their representatives were told by police that a drugs war was going on and that at least one gun was believed to be in the hands of dealers.

Police spokeswoman Alexa Collicott said: "Operation Nightshade' has been organised to give reassurance to the local community and provide them with an opportunity to talk to their policing team about any concerns they may have for the area, following an incident of criminal damage within the estate last month during which four people were arrested.

"Police officers and PCSOs will be making the foot patrols throughout the estate and local residents are encouraged to meet with them during this time. The Safer Community Team can also be contacted via the Gloucestershire Constabulary website and on 0845 090 1234."