CHESHIRE’S Police and Crime Commissioner said he had "learned a great deal" from meeting people on the street in Crewe town centre.

John Dwyer was out talking to people on Friday 25 January, seeking their views on the objectives in his draft Police and Crime Plan, and on proposals for police council tax for the coming year.

He said, "Despite the bitterly cold weather, plenty of people had views to express. What came across very clearly is the importance people attach to policing.

“They see it as an integral part of their lives and really value the concept of neighbourhood policing with its close links between themselves and their local police officers, police community support officers and special constables.

That is why we need to ensure that, whatever the financial constraints, we do what we can to protect frontline policing."

For the event in Crewe, an exhibition vehicle was stationed among the Friday market stalls.

Police community support officers combined the duty of town centre patrolling with assisting people to complete a survey on the Police and Crime Plan and budget.

Mr Dwyer added: "Eighty six people completed the questionnaires. With those from other parts of Cheshire and others from an on line survey, I will get a very clear picture of what people think. I want to thank everyone who took part.”