FOLLOWING its launch last week West Mercia Police’s Operation Net has led to increased patrols and more interaction between officers and members of the public.

The operation is a major drive to tackle an increase in anti-social activity and criminality in and around Cleeve Prior, Evesham.

Supt Steve Cullen said: “An increased number of my officers are determined to continue to remain highly visible in the area and will do for the foreseeable future.

“We will keep the pressure on potential criminals, those flouting the law and those who make the lives of some residents a misery with their inconsiderate and reckless behaviour.

“Having said that, rural Evesham is a safe and pleasant place to live but we recognise that a minority of people think they can act in was way unacceptable to the majority and this is why we are determined to put a stop to this behaviour.”

Recent activity in the area over the past few days has included:

• A man in his 20s arrested yesterday (Tuesday) on the B4085, Cleeve Prior, on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug, cannabis. He was charged and bailed to reappear at Worcester Magistrates Court on November 23.

• Police recovered a green Land Rover Freelander in a field in Cleeve Prior yesterday (Tuesday) at around 10pm. The vehicle had been stolen from the Gloucestershire area.

• Police received a report of suspicious circumstances in North Littleton at around 11pm last night (Tuesday). Two people were seen in the area on a quad bike and police attended the scene within a few minutes.

A search of the area was conducted and officers later found a green quad bike abandoned in a field in the village. Enquiries are ongoing as the vehicle is suspected to be stolen.

Supt Cullen added: “I am pleased that we have had positive feedback from members of the community concerning our activity, and desire to build upon it by working with residents, enlisting their support in eradicating the anti-social behaviour and criminality.

“I also thank the members of the public that have assisted us so far. Anyone who has any concerns or information, no matter how small it may seem, should contact police or their Local Policing Team either by calling 0300 333 3000, or at a local police surgery.

“They can also report incidents anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”