Following a car cruise event in central Milton Keynes over the weekend, Thames Valley Police have taken action against a number of drivers in attendance.

Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber confirms that the number of neighbourhood police officers in the Thames Valley is expected to double over the coming year, marking the beginning of a shift in emphasis for the force.

The news comes as Thames Valley Police has grown to record numbers, with more than 5,000 officers serving the communities of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes and Oxfordshire.

The official launch of a new speed awareness group took place in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire recently. Wallingford Community Speedwatch held their event in the town’s Market Place on the morning of Friday 31 March 2023.

The new ‘Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan’ will include stronger punishments for perpetrators, tackling problem tenants and making those who commit anti-social behaviour repair the damage they have inflicted on victims and communities.

The taskforce have recovered stolen goods worth more than £1.5m and their proactive approach has seen a significant impact in reducing hare coursing offences. Inspector Hutchings, who leads the team, explained the close working relation that has been developed with farmers and organisations such as the National Farmers Union (NFU).

Sushil Pal was arrested and charged with the offence the same day and was held in police custody before his court appearance on 7 February. He has now been jailed for six months for possession of a knife in a public place.