Ponteland PC presented with bike

Aug 5 2010 by Richard Fletcher, The Journal

GENEROUS people in Ponteland told their local bobby to get on his bike.

Ponteland Neighbourhood Beat manager Paul Henery has a new set of wheels, which were bought for him after a decision by civic leaders.

Ponteland Town Council and Darras Hall Estate Committee shared the cost of a new bike for the local policeman. It will allow PC Henery to carry out extra patrols throughout Ponteland and in areas where he previously couldn’t.

The new bike, a Giant Roam XR3, was presented by the chairman of both organisations.

PC Paul Henery said: “I’m really grateful for the bike as it’s going to make a difference to how I can patrol the area. I’ll be able to provide a greater visible police presence in and around Ponteland and, because I’m on a bike, I can access hard-to-reach areas, such as the bridlepath, in order to tackle anti-social behaviour.

“I find that when I ride a bike I can talk to the public easily while patrolling Ponteland’s paths and tracks – something which is not possible in a car.”

Town mayor Robin Ramsay said: “This bike is another weapon our local police can use to tackle criminal activity. We thought it was an extremely worthwhile joint initiative we were more than happy to support.”

John Scott, vice-chairman of Darras Hall Estates Committee, said: “PC Henery made the point that there are places in Darras Hall he can get to quickly on a bike which are simply not accessible by car, including bridlepaths. It also gives us high-visibility policing and we felt the bike was something he should have.”

To speak to your local Neighbourhood Policing Team ring 03456 043 043 or visit www.northumbria.police.uk

Pictured: PC Henery on his new bike with Town Mayor Robin Ramsay and John Scott, Vice-Chairman of Darras Hall Estates Committee.