The police fire and crime commissioner (PFCC), David Allen, went out on patrol with a Windermere and Bowness community beat officer (CBO).

He met with PC Rebecca Hunter and inspector Ross Woods on Wednesday, June 26 to find out about the positive work being done to tackle crime in the night-time economy.

Mr Allen also engaged with Lake District National Park rangers who collaborate with officers in efforts to mitigate anti-social behaviour and boat thefts around Windermere.

During the patrol, the PFCC visited Bowness' Ash Street, Church Street, Robinson Place and Crag Bow, where PC Hunter spoke about issues surrounding the night-time economy and the work being done with local businesses to tackle these concerns.

75 offences related to the night-time economy were recorded between June 1, 2024 and May 31, 2024.

This was an 11 per cent increase in comparison to the same period in 2022/2023.

All crimes that took place were alcohol-related and were committed between 9pm and 3am.

In response to rising crimes, PC Hunter liaises with the local Pubwatch Scheme and Westmorland and Furness Licensing Authority to promote licensing compliance among commercial establishments.

The police also conduct surprise late-night and planned visits to ensure premises are fully compliant.

Police cadets play a significant role in handling crime associated with night-time economy.

The Welfare Hub, following its successful trial in Carlisle, is also operational in Bowness on Saturday evenings to offer safety to any vulnerable person.

(Image: David Allen)

In combating boat thefts and anti-social behaviour, police, PC Hunter, and Lake District National Park Rangers work together.

The National Park applied for the Commissioner’s Property Fund and was granted £2,500 to buy galaxy smart tags, SelectaDNA kits, and stickers, aiming to reduce theft from around Windermere.

Mr Allen said: "PC Hunter is well-known in Windermere and is an excellent example of what a Community Beat Officer should be.

"She works closely with the community to make sure issues that matter to residents get a local response.

"Windermere and Bowness are vibrant places for tourists, and it is important to prevent disorderly behaviour from escalating".

Mr Woods added: "We want everyone in Windermere and Bowness to enjoy their night out.

"The Bowness Welfare hub offers support to any person feeling vulnerable on a night out.

"Anyone who has been a victim of a crime can also visit the hub to speak to an officer".

He also talked about Operation Headway, Cumbria Police’s dedicated operation to tackle the theft of boats and related equipment, saying: "The work into Operation Headway is ongoing.

"We are making property less attractive to steal and easier to return if stolen through forensic marking.

"Joint patrols with the Lake District National Park rangers will continue throughout the summer on and around Windermere".

The public are encouraged to report to police online at Cumbria Police or over the phone at 101.