ANTI-social behaviour was the topic for discussion when police and council officers met at Follaton House, Totnes.

South Hams is a very low crime area but local people are often affected by issues from dog fouling to criminal damage and graffiti and from noisy neighbours to rowdyism in the streets.

Cllr Mike Saltern, South Hams District Council Executive Member for Environmental Health and Housing, said: "The police and council, together with other community safety partners, work closely to address anti-social behaviour at the earliest opportunity and this type of meeting ensures that grass roots activity to address these issues continues and improves".

Inspector Andy Tomlinson said: “This event has helped to build stronger links between individuals and improve our understanding of each other’s powers. This will help to improve the overall service provided to residents and visitors in the South Hams.”

In 2010 the council appointed John Ward, a retired police officer, who has been working with the police and other agencies in dealing with those persistently involved in anti-social behaviour.

He said: “While South Hams is a very low crime area many people do suffer from anti-social behaviour. My role is to co-ordinate the actions of the police, the council and other agencies in changing the behaviour that is proving to be anti-social.”

John Ward’s full contact details and information on the service are available online or you can call him direct on 01803 861252 or call the Police on 101.