Dulverton community being asked to help combat anti-social behaviour

RESIDENTS of Dulverton are being invited to a community meeting on January 17 to help come up with a solution for a wave of anti-social behaviour which has struck the town.
West Somerset Council is co-ordinating the meeting, which is being held at 7 pm in Dulverton Town Hall.
The council wants to build on the positive action taken so far in response to the anti-social behaviour which was experienced last autumn.
The council’s community safety officer, Pete Hughes, said: “Although the incidents were of a relatively minor nature, the council has met with Dulverton Town Council, Avon and Somerset Police, the county youth service, and local housing providers to take positive action to help ensure incidents do not become more serious or more frequent.
“At the meeting, we will be reassuring local people and asking them if they would like to form a community group to help ensure our recent achievements turn into long-term solutions.”
A town council representative is already working with local agencies to deal with the problems.
Steps taken so far include an increased police presence, better signposting to youth activities, and action by housing providers against nuisance and anti-social behaviour.
Mr Hughes said: “By and large, this sort of behaviour is uncharacteristic of Dulverton.
“In line with all parishes in West Somerset, Dulverton is one of the safest places to live in the country.
“However, we do not expect local communities to have to put up with anti-social behaviour which is why we have acted swiftly to address issues.
“So far, the reaction to our initiatives has been very good, with a significant drop in anti-social behaviour in the area.
“However, our achievements are more likely turn into long-term benefits if the community is part of the solution.
“With this in mind, we are appealing for as many local people as possible to contribute time and energy towards achieving the shared goals for Dulverton.
“We are hoping that the community will show its commitment to the future social well-being of the town and come to the meeting next week to decide how it would like to see our recent efforts taken forward.”

• Our photographs show Dulverton Town Hall, in The Square, and also the Lorna Doone statue which stands beside the Exmoor House Lawns. Photos submitted.