FAMILIES in a York community whose lives have been blighted by crime and antisocial behaviour - or just anyone who wants to have their say - are being invited to a public meeting next week.

Police officers, firefighters and representatives from Age Concern and the council's youth service will be on hand to talk to residents and discuss their concerns.

Local councillors have pledged to change Heworth for the better.

Discussions at the ward committee community safety event will include:

  • Time to talk to local councillors about any matters of concern in Heworth Ward
  • Free security bike tagging from the police
  • An opportunity for residents to communicate to the police any issues in their ward
  • Advice and support on how to set up a local neighbourhood watch group
  • Presentation on how to protect your home from fire
  • Age Concern will talk to older residents on how they can feel safer in Heworth
  • Tea and coffee to keep residents warm on our cold evenings.

The meeting is being organised by Heworth's three Labour councillors, Ruth Potter, Paul Blanchard and Viv Kind. It will be held in Tang Hall Primary School from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday.

Coun Blanchard said: "As well as these great events, we will also tell residents about local improvement schemes and grants for Heworth for the next year. Some exciting things are going to happen, so residents will want to know about them."

Coun Potter said: "The great thing about this event is that residents and councillors work together in a hands-on way to make real change in our ward. Together we can all tackle crime, to make us all feel safer in our neighbourhoods."

She said: "As councillors we are committed to positive change in Heworth. But to do this, we need Heworth residents' help. We are ready to listen, so come along and give us your views."