CHESHIRE Police has hosted a conference to tackle rural crime in the county with a Knutsford officer as guest speaker. 

The purpose of the event was to engage with stakeholders from Cheshire’s rural communities.

The event was opened by Police and Crime Commissioner John Dwyer and is part of the newly launched ‘We’re Here’ campaign for Cheshire.

Knutsford officer PC Mike Dawber, who looks after the town's award-winning RuralWatch scheme, spoke to those in attendance. 

John Dwyer said: "In my Police & Crime Plan I have placed great importance on reducing crime that takes place in rural communities and those crimes particular to rural communities.

"When I was campaigning to be Cheshire’s first Police & Crime Commissioner, I spoke to many people who live in rural Cheshire who told me that they often feel isolated and that the police lacked a focus on rural crime.

"The Chief Constable and I are keen to ensure that there is a Special or PCSO in every ward. Someone that you know and can contact when you need them."

Chief Constable Simon Byrne added: "I want to gain a thorough understanding of how rural communities can work effectively in partnership with the police to tackle rural crime and I will be discussing planned days of action to be introduced to tackle rural criminality across Cheshire for the next year.

"My commitment to those of you in rural communities is this, if you have a concern, we will listen. You know your communities better than anyone. You tell us and we’ll act. We can never reduce crime to zero, but we can work together to drive it down."

The invitation to the event was sent to residents, businesses, elected members, community groups and volunteers all concerned with crime affecting the local communities.

A range of exhibitors were present at the event and audience delegates had the opportunity to engage with exhibitors throughout the day.

The outcomes of the consultation undertaken at the event will be used to inform the Constabulary’s Rural & Wildlife Crime strategy.