Street marshals' visible presence a 'useful asset'

Street marshals are having a positive effect on crime and anti-social behaviour in Barnstaple, according to local traders and community groups.

The marshals, part-funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and North Devon District Council, perform a role in responding to incidents of poor behaviour and street crime, as well as providing homeless welfare checks.

Emily Zatac, from Barnstaple Library, said the marshals responded really quickly and had developed a rapport with the public: "They've become a positive and useful asset for Barnstaple."

Natasha Jennings, who runs House of Tweed, said the marshals were "always on hand" and were "worth their weight in gold".

The street marshal programme is provided in addition to the regular police force, and police community support officers (PCSOs).

Marshals must have specific accreditation and are paid.

South West towns and cities involved in the scheme include: Barnstaple, Bideford, Exeter, Exmouth, Paignton, Plymouth, Newton Abbot, Tiverton and Torquay in Devon; as well as Bodmin, Camborne, Newquay, Penzance, St Austell and Truro in Cornwall.

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said it provided a "reassuring and visible presence in communities" and that "all areas had shown a reduction in reports of anti-social behaviour".

The financing from the OPCC is due to cease at the end of September, and local councils said they were looking to continue funding the scheme in other ways.

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