Officers in Barrow’s Neighbourhood Policing Team have been targeting hotspots for anti-social behaviour and other issues in Barrow this week (23-29 October).

As part of the week-long initiative, which coincides with school half term, officers have been conducting additional afternoon and evening patrols in areas in Barrow where there have been increased reports of ASB.

Officers have been engaging with young people and taking positive action to tackle any offending or anti-social behaviour.

On Monday (23 Oct) a moped was seized in Ormsgill after a teenager was found riding with no insurance or licence.

On Wenesday (25 Oct) Community Beat Officers from Walney and Roosecote worked together to tackle anti-social driving throughout the town. Two people were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply and controlled drug after being stopped by the team. The driver of the vehicle was also arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. He has since been bailed for further investigation.

On Thursday ( 26 Oct) officers from the Barrow Neighbourhood Community Team were joined by response colleagues to conduct an intelligence-led warrant under the Misue of Drugs Act based on information received from the public who had identified drug activity causing ASB in their community.

Following this entry to the premises a large quantity of Class A drugs were seized, and a local man was arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and remains in police custody.

Dispersal orders were also put in place earlier in the week in Barrow Town Centre where large numbers of youths were causing issues.

Sgt Gareth Sargent from the Barrow Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We know the damaging effects anti-social behaviour can have on our communities here in Barrow.

“This week we have seen our officers issue fixed penalty notices, made ‘It’s Your Choice’ referrals and contact a number of parents about their children’s behaviour during this half term.

“Activity will continue throughout the weekend with officers patrolling more ASB hotspots in the area with increased visibility to prevent this type of behaviour.

“We need the support of parents of those who may be involved in some of this behaviour. With the darker nights approaching and half term parents can support us by making sure they know where their children are going and what they are doing and asking these questions.

“I’d like to encourage the public to continue to report anti-social behaviour to us. This is the best way to help us direct resources to the right areas to tackle these incidents”