We are all alive to the concerns regarding the increased risk of violent incidents, especially late at night, in Horsham. The Police have a plan in place but I wanted to see it in execution and joined them on foot patrol in the town centre from 10pm Friday night to 3am Saturday morning.
While the concerns are real and need addressing I am pleased to report that there were no violent incidents: which remains the usual pattern in our town. There was a good police presence, with backup, and I was delighted to see our police acting decisively and swiftly in making an arrest where that was warranted.
It is important that we continue to support the police and report any incidents to 999 or 101 (as appropriate) or online. The police want your feedback to continue to build out their pattern of intelligence. Furthermore it is important our local police and the Police and Crime Commissioner are kept briefed on the need for ongoing resourcing.
Prior to joining the Police, Friday was another busy day in the constituency. Amongst a visit to Chess Dynamics which is thriving in the heart of Horsham, a meeting with Sussex Wildlife Trust and a number of surgery appointments I called in on Copsale Village Hall for their regular coffee morning as they showcased the huge value of village halls to our communities.
Following Copsale I also visited Ingfield Manor School. The school is well known for the extraordinary educational provision they provide to children with complex needs. I have visited the school previously to see the support they give these children.
My visit this time was to visit their new Woodview classroom which supports children with social and communication special needs.
It was great to speak to the staff and students to hear the impact Woodview has already had – and to see a very happy class! It was a pleasure to present the much coveted “Star of the Week” award.
A further year 7 cohort of children is expected to join Woodview in September with the idea students will stay right through till year 11.
