'No one should feel unsafe shopping in our high street' says Harrogate and Knaresborough MP
Harrogate’s MP has raised the issue of high street crime and praised the decision to launch a new Business Crime Officer in the town centre.
The appointment by Harrogate BID of former police officer Paul Evans to the new position of Business Crime Officer role was referenced by Tom Gordon MP during a discussion in Parliament on tackling abuse against people in customer-facing roles.
The Lib Dem MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough said no one should feel unsafe shopping or working in the town’s high street sector.
“This is a positive partnership between Harrogate BID, North Yorkshire Council, North Yorkshire Police and local businesses,” said Mr Gordon.
"No one should feel unsafe shopping or working on our high street. Paul’s 30 years of experience as a copper will be invaluable to the community.
“The creation of a Business Crime Officer is a great piece of joined up thinking, connecting and sharing key information between these organisations.”
Paul Evans joins the Harrogate BID team following a distinguished 30-year career with North Yorkshire Police, bringing extensive experience, knowledge and understanding of community safety, crime prevention and partnership working.
In his new role, Paul will work closely with Harrogate BID members, North Yorkshire Police and local partners to help tackle issues affecting town centre businesses, including crime and anti-social behaviour.
Paul Evans, Business Crime Officer at Harrogate BID, said: “I’m delighted to be joining Harrogate BID and I’m looking forward to working closely with businesses across the town centre.
“My three decades with North Yorkshire Police mean I understand the importance of strong relationships between businesses, local organisations and policing teams.
“Harrogate is a fantastic town with an incredible business community and I’m excited to use my experience to help ensure the town centre remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
During the Parliamentary debate, Tom Gordon MP and Home Office Minister Sarah Jones talked about anti-social behaviour and, in particular, the recent trend for shop workers being filmed for clickbait content online.
The two shared concerns around social media actively fuelling anti-social behaviour, acting as a platform for footage of harassment.