On Monday, I joined Southwater Parish Council for the opening of their fabulous new revamped skate park. It is great to see the Parish Council investing in facilities for young people living in the village and further afield. It was also great to see the Southwater Youth Project team at the opening who I know do incredible work. SYP are also holding a number of youth clubs through the summer.
SYP is just one example of activities ongoing for young people through the summer. With exam results imminent it can be a stressful time and the recently opened I-Rock is a safe place where they can talk through their worries or concerns. Based on Hurst Road, both I-Rock and the Hurst Café are open throughout the summer with Hurst Café holding a number of fun activities for young people.
Many parents and children are I am sure very distressed about the recent dreadful tragedy near Warnham. I would like to express my profound sadness and condolences to the family and friends of Charlie Cosser who lost his life. I know this has greatly shocked our community and we are all thinking about his loved ones during this difficult time.
Following the incident, the police took quick and decisive action with the perpetrator in court last week. I understand he entered a guilty plea and is now awaiting sentencing.
Across the Horsham District there are 38,000 under 18s, many will be deeply troubled by the news. When a rare incident of violence happens they are the ones most likely to be affected and joining a Police night patrol I was gratified by the number of supportive remarks made by young people. They know, but we have to repeat to them whenever we have the opportunity, that carrying a knife is madness that can have appalling consequences for everyone.
Last Friday, I held a meeting with Katy Bourne (the Sussex PCC), local police, HDC and local licensees. Inspector Durkan talked us through the newly established Horsham Town Police Team (made up of a sergeant, two police constables and six PCSOs). I very much welcome putting a strong, highly connected, neighbourhood police team at the heart of the expanded local police presence.
