The period leading up to Christmas is one of the busiest for the Metropolitan police. Local London Assembly Member, Len Duvall AM, joined local officers to get an insight into the extra demands placed on officers keeping London safe throughout the festive period.
Len Duvall joined Police Sergeant Andy Renno and Police Constable Scott Webb to walk the beat for an afternoon in Woolwich, looking at specific and ongoing policing issues.
The Commissioner, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe, said:
It’s great that so many politicians are walking the streets with local police officers, getting a real feel about what policing London is about.
At Christmas, officers continue to work around the clock and protect London whilst people are enjoying their festivities, so we hope this helps highlight the challenges our officers face and their year-round dedication.
Local Labour London Assembly Member Len Duvall AM said:
It is always pleasure to join officers and discuss at first hand the challenges they face.
Our officers work hard all year round but seeing the extra challenges the festive period can bring was very insightful. It was a chance to see how officers have responded to growing pressure on resources and it was impressive to see that they are still able to deliver a professional service with diligence and dedication.
The police recognise that they do not just need support from other agencies, like the Council, but they also need support from the community being vigilant and reporting issues so that action can be taken.
Mr Duvall added “we must always remember that there is a minority of people who commit crime and prey on the vulnerable. The majority are law abiding and care about the community in which they live.
Notes to editors
- Len Duvall is the Labour Assemble Member for Greenwich and Lewisham