'MANY VOLUNTEERS INVOLVED IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT'.

KENSINGTON'S three councillors highlighted much of the good work being done in their community.

In a statement, Wendy Simon, Louise Baldock and Liam Robinson said: "The figures quoted for Liverpool North and in particular Kensington are indeed alarming.

"When such serious offences occur, they do cause great concern and upset for the residents.

"While any crime of this nature is unwelcome, it would be fair to say the majority of these cases were on targeted individuals rather than random acts of violence.

"However, the impact on the community is just as shocking.

"Kensington and Fairfield have many individuals of all ages who are actively engaged in community development and cohesion.

"There are many tenants and residents associations which work alongside the police, other agencies and elected members to continually improve the area and also provide community activities for all ages.

"The time and commitment local people give to this is amazing and should not go unmentioned.

"The community is working closely with the police to identify offenders and due to initiatives within Kensington and Crimestoppers, they are much more likely now to report instances of crime.

"The Kensington community police team led by Simon Joyce has just received a national award for their work, which was acknowledged by letters of support from within the community.

"The two youth clubs, Central and Edge Hill, are well-used and provide positive activities and role models for young people.

"We also have detached youth programmes which work on a Friday and Saturday night, engaging with young people on the street to divert away from anti-social behaviour.

"Since being elected, we have worked closely with residents, the police and all other agencies and we are proud when the police tell us they have been able to solve additional crime due to the cooperation and support they receive within the community."

CAPTION(S):

Cllr Simon; Cllr Baldock; Cllr Robinson