CRIME falls by a fifth in Weymouth after police crackdown.

Dorset Police chiefs say crime in the Melcombe Regis area of Weymouth has fallen by 20 per cent and anti-social behaviour has reduced by 19 per cent, over the past four years.

Officers said that since June 2013 a small dedicated team has carried out patrols to give an increased police presence in the Melcombe Regis, Nothe and Chapelhay areas of Weymouth.

The patrols have been part of Operation Champion, a dedicated initiative aimed at tackling criminal activity and providing reassurance to residents.

Drug and cash seizures, as well as ‘significant arrests’ have been made, leading to the disruption of drug supplies in to the town and the break-up of a number of the drug networks, officers said.

Weymouth and Portland Neighbourhood Inspector Pete Browning said officers now want to build on this success and will be continuing to work with their colleagues as part of a multi-agency approach, including the local council.

He said: “We have a shared overall objective to improve the lives of the residents and visitors of Weymouth and Portland.

“The disruption of drug supply in to Weymouth and Portland is just one strand of the continued operation. I want to continue to build on this success to see a sustained reduction in crime whilst also focusing on some of the wider issues facing the town.”

He added: “I am very keen for the community to get involved and assist us by reporting anything unusual. Are there suspicious people in your area who you do not recognise? Do you know who your neighbours are? “Do you know the vulnerable members of your community? Talk to your neighbours and please check they are OK.”

Inspector Browning is urging members of the public who have concerns, suspicions or any information about the misuse of drugs to call Dorset Police on 101 or to call the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

N To keep up to date with the operation, search for Weymouth and Portland Safer Neighbourhood Team on Facebook and liking the page or follow Weymouth and Portland Police on Twitter.