A Ryedale councillor met with the North Yorkshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to discuss concerns over crime, anti-social behaviour, and reckless driving in rural areas.

The meeting between Cllr George Jabbour and Commissioner Zoë Metcalfe took place during Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week.

It was part of a roadshow organised by the North Yorkshire Council Community team and Safer Neighbourhood Police officers in Hovingham, Ampleforth, and Nawton.

Commissioner Metcalfe and Cllr Jabbour joined members of the police force and officers from North Yorkshire Council outside a Mobile Police Office, where they engaged with local residents.

Commissioner Metcalfe emphasised the importance of addressing anti-social behaviour not only in urban areas but also in rural communities.

She said: “Anti-social behaviour is a serious matter that comes in different shapes and forms.  

"It does not only affect urban conurbations, but it also blights many of our rural areas.  This is why I felt that it is important to be here in Ryedale during ASB Awareness Week.  

"I was glad to meet with Councillor Jabbour and to discuss with him the issues that affect the residents that he represents within the Helmsley and Sinnington division.”

Cllr Jabbour added: "I was delighted to join Commissioner Metcalfe together with members of North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Council speaking with local residents to raise awareness about antisocial behaviour. 

"I also expressed the gratitude that our community has for the support and engagement that we have been receiving from the dedicated team of police officers.

"This includes the meeting we recently had in Helmsley to answer questions from the residents, the community operation activities that they regularly carry out and the help they provided in setting up a local Community Speed Watch initiative.”