Metropolitan Police Service - Volunteer Cadets

On Friday 2 September, Abbey Safer Neighbourhoods Team with Merton Priory Homes held a Community Open Day for residents and families on the High Path Estate, Colliers Wood in Merton.

With teams from the Blue Cross, Merton Dog Watch, Neighbourhood Wardens, London Fire Brigade and twenty Merton Volunteer Police Cadets, the day was a great success in brilliant sunshine.

Just a month after the scenes of violent disorder and looting nearby at the Tandem Centre and Priory Retail Park in Colliers Wood, this family day brought together local people and families to meet up and enjoy face painting, street dancing and even free micro-chipping and advice for dog owners thanks to the Merton Dog Watch team.

Event organisers Jackie Murphy and Donna Brown said "We really wanted to hold a fun day for our residents and the response has been brilliant. There’s such a great community feel on the estate, and the teams have been great".

Sergeant John Tibaldi said "As the local Safer Neighbourhoods Team, we’ve been supporting and reassuring people, as well as giving out crime prevention advice and even learning about street dance!"

17 year old Merton Volunteer Police Cadet Courtney White said "As part of Youth United, the London-wide youth programme where local young people get a chance to show positive community spirit and commitment, we were really glad to be invited to help run today, set up a stand and take part in the activities. This is far more what young people should be recognised for!".

Chief Inspector Mark Lawrence, Merton Police, said "It seems hard to believe that less than a month ago, my officers were facing such violent disorder and hostility and yet now, my Safer Neighbourhoods officers and Volunteer Police Cadets are here in their local community, helping people and ensuring Colliers Wood remains a safe and pleasant place to live. Well done to all involved for such a great day!".