Police praise for traction rally staff (From Gazette & Herald)

Police praise for Pickering Traction Engine Rally staff

12:27pm Wednesday 8th August 2012 in News

LAST weekend’s Pickering Traction Engine Rally was one of the most peaceful for a number of years, according to the area’s police inspector.

Insp Andy Everitt said crime had been reduced by a third due to an increased police presence and the professionalism of the security firm running the site.

“There was a marked decrease in occurances and crimes in the Pickering area and within the Ryedale area in general this year,”

he said.

“One of the keys to this success, from a policing point of view, was the very professional security company who were able to manage conflict and potential issues at an early stage.”

Insp Everitt said police patrols had been stepped up on the main routes to Pickering in the week before the event to identify and intercept travelling criminals.

“Local residents were also able to see highly visible patrols during the rally on Friday and Saturday who engaged with the security team at the event,” he said.

“Reassurance patrols were also carried out in Haygate Lane which were welcomed by the local community.”

Insp Everitt said last year’s event had seen eight crimes and 30 incidents whereas this year there were only two crimes and eight other incidents.

“This was one of the most peaceful and smoothly run events for many years,” he said.