VIDEO FEATURE: On the beat with PCSOs in Skegness

PCSO Michelle Collins and PCSO Dave Bunker on patrol in Skegness. ANL-160527-125604001

I was on patrol with PCSO Dave Bunker, Skegness Neighbourhood Policing Team, following a number of complaints about riders breaking the law, ahead of the start of the season when pavements in the resort are full of holidaymakers.

The cyclist we spotted turned right out off Lumley Road and had dismounted by the time PCSO Bunker approached her for a friendly chat.

He said: “Our concern is the danger when cyclists are on the footway. We have to consider the safety of cyclists as well as pedestrians so we are offering advice which is what I did when I spoke to the lady.

”When it is children, who we have also seen today, you have to use your discretion because you have to think of their safety if they go on the road.”

PCSO Bunker’s shift on Wednesday started at 2pm on a cold, wet May day. Walking from the station the streets towards the town centre were almost deserted, but there was soon evidence cyclists were around as we approached cycles padlocked to cycle stands.

He said: “It’s nice to see the cycles chained securely. There are a few cycles stolen in Skegness and we do offer cycle chipping.”

Along the street we came across a homeless person sheltering in a shop  doorway.

PCSO Dave Bunker checking the cycles in Lumley Road, Skegness. ANL-160527-125639001

PCSO Bunker spoke to him to check he was OK. He said: “When we are out and about we have a chat with the homeless we see to check their welfare and ask if they have been referred to P3, the homeless charity. If not we can put a referral in for them and P3 can hopefully find them some accommodation.”

We paused outside Barclays Bank, where an important event will take place on Friday, June 10.

PCSO Bunker said: “Between 10am and 3pm we are holding an event with Lincolnshire Trading Standards and Operation Repeat team to raise awareness of the various fraud and scams operating in the county.”

Along Lumley Road we came across PCSO Michelle Collins who was chatting to a member of the public. She said: “Engaging with the public is an important part of our work. Without their help we couldn’t do our job.”

PCSO Collins is busy organising a safety event with Skegness firefighters on Skegness sea front on Saturday, July 30.

She said: “It’s going to be huge so watch this space.”