
Paul Crabtree has been appointed as the new Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Craven
He takes over at a time when the Government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee is driving changes aimed at increasing public confidence in local policing.
The initiative focuses on placing more officers in local teams, improving visibility, and targeting community priorities, including anti-social behaviour.
Crabtree said that visible and approachable policing remains a priority.
Paul added:
“Being visible and approachable in our communities is essential.
“I know how much the public want to see police on the streets and on the beat.
"Some people have a misconception that police forces don’t do foot patrols anymore – that’s simply not true.”
Since the start of June, his team has spent 173 hours patrolling Skipton town centre, covering 216 miles.
The team has introduced a Safer Streets campaign to expand patrols and engagement throughout the summer and autumn, aiming to address crime and anti-social behaviour in local communities.
Two new sergeants have joined Craven’s Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Sergeant John Pepper will focus on reducing retail crime and tackling anti-social behaviour, while Sergeant Sohail Tariq will lead on burglary prevention, policing the nighttime economy, and drug prevention.
Paul continued:
“We are here for the community and we are on your side.
"I want to reduce crime even further and make Craven a safer place to live and work.
"If anyone travels here to commit offences or think they can cause problems in our local community, then I will make life hard for them – this is not a place for their illegal activities.”