Police in Carlisle crackdown on speeding and drivers using mobile phones

A variety of motoring offences in Carlisle are being investigated as part of patrols through the streets.

The News & Star joined the officers on one patrol this week.

During our journey across Carlisle, we witnessed one motorist who was pulled over in the Newtown Road area for using his mobile phone at the wheel, and for not wearing a seat belt.

Elsewhere, a separate driver heading northwards along the A595 was caught ignoring signs not to turn right onto Barras Brow at Cardewlees.

PC Jen Lewis explained: "The crackdown comes after numerous reports of speeding and people using their mobile phone behind the wheel on our social media pages.

"We want to spread the word that any driver caught with a motoring offence by our officers will be dealt with in the appropriate manner."

The new initiative comes as 25 additional police officers have been allocated to help with neighbourhood policing in Cumbria.

Recruitment of the new officers, who were pledged by Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall back in April, coincided with the launch of 'Local Focus Hubs', aimed at putting community issues to the top of the agenda.

Neighbourhood policing will be delivered by these Hubs, with six around the country, two will be in North Cumbria, with two in West Cumbria and two in South Cumbria.

The hubs allow different agencies, including council, housing, fire, police and more, to come together and work side by side to find solutions when specific issues are raised.

And the hubs will be supported by six Local Focus Facebook groups. These will offer residents a one-stop shop to get in touch with a number of agencies, including the police.

Inspector DI Bradbury, who oversees the Carlisle Local Focus Hub, believes the new group is already making a difference.

She said: "In Longtown, we have launched a Community Alcohol Partnership to tackle underage drinking and antisocial behaviour following concerns from local residents."