OPERATION Impact in the Hemlington area of Middlesbrough saw a man arrested, a knife recovered, visits to local businesses and engagement with a local school, all on the first day.

Operation Impact is a dedicated week of action in Hemlington, aiming to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour in the area.

Officers from Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Team and Street Wardens from Middlesbrough Council patrolled the area, engaging with parents and pupils at Viewley Hill Primary School at the end of the school day and speaking with a number of local residents.

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Councillor Walker joined officers and wardens at the school and then accompanied them on their patrols as they spoke with local residents to discuss issues and update them on the operation.

Leaflets were delivered to homes around the ‘D’ block, with further leaflets being handed out over the coming days across the area.

A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft and driving offences and was taken into custody.

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A knife was located in the grounds of the Viewley Centre, and this was seized and disposed of safely by officers.

A continuous high visibility presence was maintained throughout the evening, resulting in no reports of anti-social behaviour or criminal damage made to the Force in the Hemlington area last night on Thursday night.

Chief Inspector Daryll Tomlinson said: “Our high visibility patrols, engagement and other activity in partnership with the local authority, Cleveland Fire Brigade and housing associations will continue to help us reassure our local communities that we are listening and we are taking action and to help prevent further offences being committed in the area.

“Anyone who has been a victim of anti-social behaviour or crime is urged to contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

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