ANTI-SOCIAL behaviour is the biggest criminal concern for residents in Hertfordshire, according to the county’s police authority chairman.

Stuart Nagler was speaking at the launch of the Hertfordshire Police Authority Policing Plan at the Fielder Centre in Hatfield today (Monday), after it was announced that tackling anti-social behaviour would be made the constabulary’s top priority this year.

“In calls made to the police, it [anti-social behaviour] is the largest single issue, and one of the most common concerns brought up at public meetings and in surveys,” Mr Nagler said.

“The backdrop for our plan is a county that has low and falling crime rates and one of the top performing forces in the country. “However, anti-social behaviour in all its guises still causes disruption and upset for too many people in the county and seriously affects their quality of life.

“Our neighbourhood policing teams play a vital role in identifying and tackling these local concerns, and in providing visible and accessible local policing, but they can only be successful with the help and support of our partners and our communities.”

Chief Constable Frank Whiteley added: “I can promise you that the officers and staff of Hertfordshire Constabulary will continue to work with the same high levels of commitment and professionalism to bring safety, justice and reassurance to all of you, whilst facing up to the new challenges of the year ahead.”