Regrettably, and for political purposes, a misleading statistic as to the number and context of CCTV cameras in the UK has been used to inform debate nationally on such matters.
A figure of 1 camera for every 14 members of the public has been used to scaremonger about a 'Big Brother' state. The figure was arrived at by applying the estimated number of cameras in two busy streets in London to the rest of the UK. These figures included not just those cameras in public spaces but all such security cameras in private businesses which have nothing to do with the state or government at all.
Leyland cameras
Thankfully Leyland residents have a more sensible approach to cameras. When consulted residents have said that they want Leyland to be a safe and welcoming environment.
Cameras which produce high quality images installed at Earnshaw Bridge have improved what was previously a problem hotspot for anti-social behaviour. Local businesses, residents and the police report how quiet the area is now.
Bannister Brook, Centurion Way, Leyland Market and parts of Hough Lane are now to receive the same protection with new cameras linked directly to police.
Meanwhile Councillors Anne Brown and Fred Heyworth have been active in acheiving a 'No Cold Calling Area' for residents of Welsby Road and Yarrow Road.
This gives residents some deterrence against bogus callers and doorstep sellers and enables the more vulnerable members of the community to say no to cold callers and call on community support to assist them when necessary. Read more about such schemes here.
More hi-tech and high praise for Lancashire Police
There was good news in May as Lancashire learned it is to be one of 27 police forces to receive money from central government for new handheld computers.
This will allow police officers to record any necessary details right there and then out on the beat giving more time on patrol for officers, increased police visibility and reassurance for communities.
Flanagan Review of Policing
The use of such technology implements recommendations made by Sir Ronnie Flanagan, Chief Inspector of Constabulary, who was tasked last year by the Home Secretary with conducting an independent and comprehensive review of policing. He was asked to focus on the four key issues of how to reduce bureaucracy in the police, making progress on Neighbourhood Policing, ensuring that there is sufficient local involvement and local accountability for policing, and how the police service can manage its resources effectively.
The Home Secretary welcomed Sir Ronnie's reports and the recommendations giving her 'clearest endorsement' and a mandate for swift action.
Neighbourhood Policing
Already, action taken on the findings and recommendations are beginning to be seen. The Flanagan report spoke of the success of earlier initiatives such as 'Neighbourhood Policing' - this brings together a team of officers and Police Community Support Officers who work together with local people to identify local priorities, listening to them and ensuring their concerns are met through local agreements.
Neighbourhood Policing Teams are now in place in every area with named officers contactable by phone or through community meetings.
"Praise for our prompt police"
A letter-writer to the Lancashire Evening Post recently praised the response of their local team as one of "a very responsive and professional police force." Read the full letter here.
Neighbourhood Policing in our area
You can read about Neighbourhood Policing and find out who the team is for your postcode area here.
Find your Neighbourhood Police team 
