Anger over cutbacks to crime-fighters

The decision by Conservative bosses on Leicestershire County Council to cutback support for Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) has been condemned by local Liberal Democrats.

The decision was passed at Wednesday's Leicestershire County Council budget meeting. Liberal Democrat County Councillors voted against the plans.

County Councillor Stuart Bray (Lib Dem, Burbage Castle) said "This is a disgraceful decision by Conservative county councillors. One of the main deterrents to crime and anti-social behaviour locally is the team of PCSOs that patrol local streets and help local police officers spot people who are up to no good.

"We all know in these difficult times savings have to be made, but this cut by Tory bosses is likely to lead to fewer PCSOs on our streets.

"The County Council is keeping £87 million in the bank and still spends over £2 million on press and publicity, some of that money could be used to keep PCSOs on the streets of Hinckley and Bosworth and the rest of the county.

"People locally have already told me of their concerns about the greater risk of crime and anti-social behaviour following the Conservative County Council's policy of dimming streetlights locally and switching a number off at midnight.

"Cutting PCSOs will make people feel even less safe."

Local Lib Dems have launched a petition calling on County Hall Conservatives to change reverse the decision. People can sign an online petition opposing the cuts to PCSOs at www.BosworthLibDems.org.uk