Extra officers are patrolling Coventry City centre from today, with a new team paid for out of Home Office cash.

It follows the arrival of a new team for the Hillfields area last month. And now eight extra officers will be working exclusively in the city centre.

They have started work today, based at Little Park Street station and aim to increase a uniformed presence.

And their job is to build up links with shopkeepers, business and other agencies based in the centre. These are new posts and new officers will be taken to replace those joining the new team.

Insp Gary Herrington said:

“We are delighted that he Crime Fighting Fund has enabled us to put even more officers on the beat.

“This team will be used as high visibility foot patrol officers who will be out and about in Coventry during peak times to help prevent crimes and bring reassurance to members of the public.

“All the team will be experienced city centre officers and other officers will be coming into the sector to replace them.

“We know we already have the support of the local community and feel sure that they will welcome this team of officers and soon build up a rapport and working relationship that will help us ensure the security and peace of mind of everyone who works and shops in the city centre.”