Fylde Police launch new Rural Task Force

Friday, January 26, 2024

A new rural task force team has been launched in Fylde to target the issues that matter most to rural communities including machinery theft, rural, wildlife and heritage crime. 

The new team consists of a Sergeant and six police officers, who will intend to provide extra resources to target, disrupt and address crime in rural communities.

Superintendent James Black said: “Across the Constabulary, the Rural Task Force teams have been incredibly effective in targeting rural crime.

“With 74 per cent of Lancashire classed as rural, these officers will be a great asset to support our rural communities, who have a range of needs. 

“We are all pleased to introduce this new team into Fylde, and hope it provides reassurance to the community.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire, Andrew Snowden, said: “Making sure that our rural areas receive the policing support they need is something I am passionate about and I am delighted to see this new additional team addressing crimes committed in rural Fylde.

"As Commissioner, I have previously committed £700k to bolster our rural taskforces with additional officers and equipment, and I continue to back the force in tackling rural criminals.

"Our rural taskforces continue delivering dedicated, targeted policing that engages with rural communities, and the results they continue to deliver is testament to all their hard work. I am pleased that by strengthening the capacity of these teams across Lancashire, we will be able to continue taking the fight to criminals in our rural areas.

“My Fighting Crime Plan commits to the people of Lancashire that all of our areas and communities, from our countryside to our largest cities, feel protected. I will continue working with the Chief Constable on the issues that matter to people as I lead the fight against crime in Lancashire.”