Following reports made of an increase in the number of young people committing anti-social behaviour in and around Aughton, West Lancashire neighbourhood policing team want to update the local community, following a successful parish meeting.

Ormskirk Police has been keen to show a high visible presence in the area to tackle the issue and has had dedicated resources tasked to the area, including response officers and special constabulary over the last three weeks.

Said CI Chris Abbott: “We want to thank all those who attended the parish meeting and for their feedback.

"From information received from the community, the majority of young people who gather in Aughton are actual residents, whose family reside in the area.

"We have also identified a few individuals from out of the area, all of which have been visited with their parents and appropriate action taken.

“We have outlined the benefits of diversionary activities and shared experience as to the success of the community working together and as such are keen to work with all partners to come up with a solution.”

Keeping the communities safe remains a priority in Aughton and while patrols will remain ongoing in the area, Ormskirk Police will also continue to respond to other areas of West Lancashire dependent on risk and threat.

Over the next few weeks, the mobile neighbourhood police van will be in Aughton giving people the opportunity to come and talk to the team.

CI Abbott added: “We understand some members of the community are frustrated with the current issues, but please come and speak directly to us and give us some feedback. Dates and times will be advertised on our social media pages.”

Members of the public can also sign up to Lancashire Talking stayintheknow.co.uk/lancashiretalking and complete the survey to help provide a multi-partnership approach going forward.