IT is back to school for CSOs in Birchwood as they take up a new base at Birchwood High School.

The new location means they can spend more time in the community they serve rather than having it taken up by travelling back to their central base in Risley.

The police community support officers have been stationed within the school as their foot patrol service is often impacted by returning to centralised police stations for other duties.

The new setting that Birchwood High School is providing is a more accessible base for the officers, and is intended boost the quality of service that they provide by increasing the amount of time they are in the community.

Insp Chris Adkins, from Warrington East NPU, said: “CSOs typically cover their beat areas on foot and will often use public transport systems and bicycles to access the wider community.

“The amount of time spent on their beats is impacted when they have to return to a centralised police station for other duties.

Inevitably, this reduces their visibility and accessibility.

“It is believed that this will also help to strengthen relationships with partner agencies and enhance the level of service we provide to the community.”

Birchwood High School has welcomed the move to bring the bobbies on board.

A spokesman said: “It helps the police to provide a better service for people as they will not be using up as much time travelling to and from central Warrington.

“It also gives an opportunity for positive relationships to be formed and helps learners to view the police as part of the community.

“Additionally, it will provide an element of added security at times of the day outside of school hours when the school is open for community activities.”