Council hires in extra security for seaside town

The security guards are being provided by Akon Security

Extra security patrols have been hired for a Kent seaside town in an attempt to curb anti-social behaviour in the area.

Canterbury City Council (CCC) has received funding from Kent's Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) to bring in security guards from Akon Security to patrol in Herne Bay alongside the police and wardens from Kent County Council and CCC.

Matthew Scott, Kent's PCC, said: "This type of scheme has worked successfully in other parts of the county to help address crime and antisocial behaviour."

CCC confirmed patrols have already began, with the guards helping when there was a crash involving a pedestrian.

It said that they remained with members of the public until police arrived and they will be providing witness statements.

CCC said the extra guards are working in pairs for 50 hours a week over five days.

They have been bought in to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour, as well as providing a "reassuring presence" in the community, said a CCC spokesperson.

They added they will gather intelligence and report it to police.

Mr Scott added: "My mission is to cut crime, support victims, and build trust.

"This partnership between Canterbury City Council, Kent Police and my office will help deliver this for the residents of Herne Bay."