VALE Royal police this week unveiled radical new plans to combat crime and disorder.

As part of Home Secretary Jack Straw's new Crime and Disorder Strategy, Winsford police will send out a special survey, asking what our towns and villages want from their police force.

In the next few days, every house in Vale Royal will receive a copy of the survey - and a plea from Supt Ian Johns to complete it.

"This initiative comes as a result of a series of meetings between ourselves, Vale Royal Borough Council, and Cheshire County Council," said Supt Johns.

"By April 1 next year, we intend to have a full strategy in place to take direct action on what local people have asked us to deal with."

The move is without precedent, and aims to make the area a safer place to live, work and visit.

As part of the package, local interest groups will also be asked their opinions on what is needed. Anyone wishing to be part of a 'focus group' should apply now. See the end of this article for how to get involved.

"The aim of the Crime and Disorder Act is to make communities safer," said Supt Johns.

"That means tackling not just crime itself but the fear of crime.

"We are looking now at improving the quality of life for everyone."

Among the issues highlighted in the survey are:

Fire safety.

Business crime.

Drug and alcohol abuse.

Noisy neighbours.

Anti-social behaviour.

Dometic abuse.

Traffic safety.

"I urge everyone who receives a copy of the survey to respond to it," said Supt Johns.

"This is a great opportunity for them to outline exactly what affects them, and for us to take that into account."

Clr Arthur Neil, leader of Winsford-based Vale Royal Borough Council, also urged people to respond to the initiative.

He said: "It represents the best way of responding to the views of local people and brings together all the organisations which have a part to play."

There is a cash prize for the first four people to send back copies of the survey. They will win £25 each, and the prize draw will take place on October 15.

If you are part of a local interest group, perhaps a community care scheme or youth action group, and you would like to be involved as a 'focus group', you should write to Vale Royal Borough Council, Wyvern House, The Drumber, Winsford, CW7 1AH.

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