An event to help tackle anti-social behaviour in Penrith was held earlier this month.
Cumbria Constabulary’s Penrith Neighbourhood Policing Team and Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service stationed themselves at the entrance of the town’s Castle Park on May 2 between 7pm and 9pm.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service’s welfare unit was set up with a presentation about anti-social behaviour, plus water and road safety.
The operation was supported by McDonald’s, which donated a burger and drink to every young person attended.
Over 20 young people took part and Penrith Neighbourhood Policing Team said there was positive feedback from businesses in the area which have had issues with youth anti-social behaviour in recent months.
It is hoped other events will be held in the school holidays and later in the year.
Danielle Ousby, PCSO for the Penrith area said: “This was a great event, and we hope all that attended enjoyed it and were able to take something away from it.
“We’re aware of anti-social behaviour issues in the Penrith area, particularly youth anti-social behaviour, affecting local businesses and communities and this event was another example of our efforts to prevent the issue through education.
“Eden NPT will continue to be proactive when it comes to addressing youth anti-social behaviour and continue to carry out patrols in areas within our communities where we know crime or anti-social behaviour is taking place as part of Operation Enhance.”
Andrew Lowes, station manager at Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, said: “This is a great example of how partnership working between ourselves, Cumbria police and McDonald’s can make a real impact in our communities and deliver value for the public.
“The young people we spoke to were very engaged and understood the messaging that we were trying to get across, and hopefully the benefits of that will be seen in the wider community.”
