POLICE are joining forces with people in a bid to tackle local crimes and other issues.

As part of the county-wide Not in My Neighbourhood Week, officers were out in force in Thirsk market place as well as other towns across North Yorkshire.

They are attempting to increase awareness in the community of what the police and partner agencies are doing to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

And officers have also been asking local people to highlight any problems they would like prioritised in their area.

Chief Inspector Mark Khan, of the Safer Neighbourhood Partnership and Development Team, said: "Not in My Neighbourhood Week is a fantastic example of how police work in partnership with other agencies to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour.

"Our Safer Neighbourhood Teams will work relentlessly to maximise positive results in the fight against crime and ensure long term problem solving plans are in place for quality of life issues within communities."

Mischief Night and Bonfire Night also take place during the week and extra patrols are planned to put a stop to anti-social behaviour over the period.

Chief Inspector Khan said: "While the autumn festivities are fun and enjoyable for most people, for some of the more vulnerable members of the community, especially the elderly, it can be very distressing.

"Unlawful behaviour under the guise of ‘mischief’ will not be tolerated and anyone who is caught causing problems will be dealt with swiftly and firmly and could end up with a criminal record.

"We also ask that parents take responsibility for their children’s behaviour and ensure that they know where they are and what they are doing."

Events in Thirsk for the rest of the week include a youth disco for 12 to 16-year-olds at the Aspire nightclub tonight (WEDS) and a crime prevention stall at Tesco on Friday.

For more information about Not in My Neighbourhood Week visit northyorkshire.police.uk or call 0845 6060 247 and ask to speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood Team.