THE police neighbourhood team for Stevenage town centre has launched a new text system to allow people to report anti-social behaviour. People can text POLICE and a short message about what is happening and where to 82727. The message will go directly to

THE police neighbourhood team for Stevenage town centre has launched a new text system to allow people to report anti-social behaviour.

People can text POLICE and a short message about what is happening and where to 82727.

The message will go directly to officers who will be carrying mobile phones so they can act immediately. The person who has sent the message will receive an automated response to show the message has been received.

Officers will have the mobile phones while on patrol in the town centre between 8am and 6pm daily.

Police community support officer (PCSO) Chris Watson from the town centre team developed the project and said: "Incidents of anti-social behaviour are not high in number in Stevenage town centre but this forms part of our continued efforts to ensure those in the minority who are involved in such incidents are dealt with.

"People may want to report anti-social behaviour but don't feel comfortable calling police. This will give people the chance to report incidents discretely. The scheme is being trialled for six months in the town centre and we are then hoping to use it in other areas.

"Posters have been put up in town centre shop windows to remind people of the number but it is important to remind people that this system is not to be used in emergencies.

"If you believe a crime is in progress always call 999. If your call is not urgent you contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number on 0845 3300 222."

* Anti-social behaviour covers a wide range of unacceptable activity and includes vandalism, graffiti and fly-posting, nuisance neighbours and intimidating groups taking over public spaces.