Blunkett praises police call staff

At the Annual Police Superintendents' Association Conference, in Warwickshire, on Tuesday, Mr Blunkett said the Lancashire force had the right approach to dealing with calls from members of the public who had become a victim of crime.

He told delegates that by telling non-emergency callers exactly how long they would have to wait before police assistance arrives the force had made huge advances in public satisfaction.

Russ Weaver, chief superintendent for Preston, and his counterpart in Southern Division, Chris Weigh, which covers Leyland, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge, have praised more than 100 staff who deal with emergency calls across the force's six divisions.

Chief Supt Weaver said: "It was a complete surprise when I heard it but obviously I am delighted that Mr Blunkett has singled Lancashire out as having a real quality of service in the way we handle calls.

"We have had praise as the best the best force in the country in a number of key areas and this adds to our accolades and gives our staff a boost to know we are doing well."

But the good work continues with the installation of a new software programme designed to improve call-handling even more.

It is currently being piloted in Burnley but could be rolled out across Preston and South Ribble and is an approach the Home Secretary is now considering to expand under his new coppers' contract, between the police and public, setting out the level of service people can expect when contacting the police for the first time.

Chief Supt Weigh, who was appointed just over a week ago, said he wants to carry on the good work.

"I've been in the constabulary for over 20 years and I'm proud to see Lancashire being recognised for the good work they do and I want to continue the work that's gone before me.

"I think it's one of the best forces and I don't think you will find better in the country."