As West Mercia's anti-social behaviour strategy has gained international acclaim, as academics from California and Norway are looking at Oswestry.

They're keen to learn about effective engagement with local communities and its role in reducing crime

Professor Aila Matanock from the University of California and Professor Ingrid Nyborg from NMBU are studying the effectiveness of intensive local engagement against crime in the UK.

Particularly, they're focusing on low-crime regions.

Targeted engagement is currently underway in Evesham, Oswestry, Shrewsbury and Leominster in partnership with West Mercia Police and Warwickshire company Intensive Engagement Ltd.

Intensive Engagement Ltd secured the contract after Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), John Campion successfully pursued extra funding to combat anti-social behaviour and crime in specific hotspots.

OTHER NEWS:

Mr Campion said: "It’s not every day that work taking place in West Mercia is being used as an international case study.

"I understand tackling anti-social behaviour is one of the public’s main policing priorities, so it’s welcome to see the funding I have invested into intensive engagement will ensure long-lasting change across the three counties."

Inspector Mike Phillips, of West Mercia Police’s prevention hub, said: "We are delighted to welcome these leading academics to our force to see the work we do every day to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB).

"ASB can have a huge impact on our communities and often creates an environment where more serious crimes can flourish.

"West Mercia Police and our partner agencies are committed to working closely with local communities to do everything we can to tackle anti-social behaviour and prevent it from happening."