70 police hours on traveller groups (From Warrington Guardian)

Residents concerned over increase in police time spent on travellers behaviour

2:17pm Thursday 13th October 2011 in Burtonwood

THERE has been a rise in anti-social behaviour among travellers across Burtonwood, Westbrook and Winwick.

Residents have expressed concerns over the increase in time spent by police in trying to combat the problems.

Insp Dave Griffiths from Warrington West NPU said: “Cheshire Police remain committed to partnership working with the local authority and businesses to provide an effective response to concerns raised.

“There has been an increase in the time spent by police resources in responding to reports of anti-social behaviour involving members of the gipsy and traveller communities, specifically recent incidents that have involved two traveller families from outside the Cheshire area.

“Over the course of the summer, officers have spent more than 70 hours responding to and resolving calls for assistance involving these individuals, who make up a small minority of Warrington’s established travelling communities whose overall conduct causes no concern.”

In August, Winwick Leisure Centre was trashed following a gipsy christening. It kook more than 50 officers to break the party up.

Incidents have also been recorded at Burtonwood Services and Gemini Retail Park.

Regular meetings are held between police, the council and business and community representatives to tackle the issues.