POLICE PILOT ONLINE CRIME MEETINGS IN GOSFORTH

3.11.00pm GMT Fri 8th Jan 2010

Gosforth residents had their say on crime from the comfort of their home as Northumbria Police hosted its first ever virtual meeting.

Gosforth and Great Park Inspector Ronnie Lowes logged on to the meeting to speak directly to local residents about crime and disorder.

He was joined in his hour-long web chat by 34 residents from across the area.

The meeting gave residents the chance to raise any concerns they may have about crime in their neighbourhood and ask questions.

Councillor David Slesenger said: "This is a great idea to allow residents to speak directly to the local inspector via their computer.

"The police regularly attend the ward committee meetings but many residents lead busy lives or have child care or work commitments.

"This way they can carry on with their lives while also getting important information about crime and policing in East Gosforth."

If the online meeting proves to be a success it may be extended to other districts of Newcastle and across the force area.