West Mercia Local Resilience Forum response to national disorder
Posted on behalf of Neighbourhood Matters and West Mercia Police
Local agencies are working together to ensure we remain vigilant and prepared after large-scale disorder elsewhere in the country.
The criminal behaviour has not been imitated across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire (the counties served by the West Mercia Local Resilience Forum), and there is no confirmed intelligence of any planned unlawful activity over the coming days, but we remain vigilant, prepared and confident in our ability to respond.
Local agencies are working together to ensure we are ready and fully prepared to maintain the safety of the public. We recognise some people might feel concerned by these events and would like to reassure you that it is business as usual in our counties.
Acts of hate have no place in our society, and we are proud of the community cohesion in our towns and cities.
West Mercia Police Officers have been engaging with local communities and we are clear that swift and decisive action will be taken against those who commit violent disorder.
Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills from West Mercia Police said: “We understand that there is concern amongst our communities and we remain a visible presence in our towns, cities and at community events for your reassurance.
“Given the national news there is a very natural reaction to share rumours that you may see online, but misinformation is unhelpful, and we ask that you check trusted sources for the facts before you hit share.
“Whilst we won’t comment on specific rumours, so as not to encourage disorder, be rest assured that if action is needed for your safety this message will be loud and clear.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “The riots, and inexcusable behaviours, that we have seen elsewhere in the country over the last week will no doubt have caused concern and upset to all community groups.
“In West Mercia, we have not seen those same events. This is testament to local people coming together and standing against violence and disorder. Should we find ourselves in a situation where that changes, I know that West Mercia Police has the resources it needs to take swift and decisive action.”
Councillor Lynn Denham, Leader of Worcester City Council, said: “Worcester is a vibrant, creative, warm and beautiful place to live and while I know people are concerned about recent events elsewhere in the country, I want them to know that it is business as usual in our city. In particular, the Worcester Show is going ahead as planned at Pitchforth on Sunday and will provide a packed programme of entertainment for all the family.”
