PEOPLE who live in South Cambridgeshire can now get the latest news on policing issues in their area by following officers online.

Officers already have the @SouthCambsCops account on Twitter to provide followers with news on a variety of police-related matters including crimes, crime prevention, court results and community issues.

Now, they are engaging with communities online by encouraging residents to complete an online survey and launching a new blog.

At a recent panel meeting in Histon, more than 70 people completed an online survey that helped shape local policing priorities set at the meeting.

Throughout this, Sergeant Paul Rogerson tweeted live updates and a number of suggestions were raised on Twitter during the meeting resulting in a road safety priority being set.

Inspector Chris Savage said: “The Twitter account is a quick way for people to dip in and out of the work we do. It also allows followers to share this information with friends, family or colleagues.

“During the panel meeting it was an opportunity for us to reach an audience that might not have shown an interest, or expressed an opinion before. This worked well as people raised road safety concerns about the A14 junction with Bridge Road, motorists jumping red lights, using mobile phones and parking.

“Sgt Rogerson will now meet the residents group to talk about what more can be done.”

Officers have also launched a new blog to provide regular updates on policing in the area. The blog includes updates on local panel meetings and current policing priorities.

Insp Savage added: “The blog will be used to share crime prevention advice and consult with local residents online. There is a lot of great police work going on in South Cambs every day and we want to inform as many people as possible.”

If you want to get closer to policing in South Cambridgeshire, follow @SouthCambsCops or view the blog at southcambscops.org for an insight into policing where you live.