Better security for Northallerton station (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Better security for Northallerton station

12:54pm Monday 20th August 2012 in News

A NEW scheme has been launched to increase security at a station on the East Coast main line in North Yorkshire.

British Transport Police together with members of the local community in Northallerton have launched a Neighbourhood Watch-style scheme to ensure the station is a safe place to travel and work.

And they are now inviting residents to join the scheme and tell them about any problems or issues at the station.

Sergeant Jo Christon of British Transport Police said: “The scheme is all about residents, passengers and rail staff working together with us to address any crime or other issues which arise at the station and surrounding area.

“It’s important that we listen to passengers and local residents about issues and crime that concerns or affects them so we can take action to prevent it.”

Initial members of the project include residents who overlook the station and railway who will act as the scheme’s eyes and ears and report anything to the police.

However the organisers are also keen for other members of the community to join as well.

Sgt Christon added: “We want to make Northallerton station even more welcoming and crime free, and the station watch scheme will go a long way towards that.”

The station is already protected by CCTV and BTP say their officers also regularly patrol the area.

Station manager Mike Drewery said: "We have invested a lot of time and effort to ensure Northallerton station is a safe environment for everyone.

“We are accredited to the Government's Secure Station Scheme and we are delighted that we are able, with our community partners to take part in the station watch programme.”

The next meeting will be held on September 6 at the Samaritans Centre, Crosby Road, Northallerton at 6.30pm. Meetings will then be held on the first Thursday of every month.

Anyone interested in joining the scheme should contact Sgt Christon on 0113 247 2351.