Rotary Partnership with the Police & Community Support

WE LOVE PARTNERSHIP WORKING says Local Police and Rotary Newton Aycliffe
This particular ‘Dream Team’ story began with Stephenson Way Academy and Nursery – a break in! And a van full of DIY equipment – stolen! At the school, a substantial amount of damage was caused with sheds vandalised, greenhouse glass broken, and plants thrown around. The school garden was highly valued by the children as one of their outdoor activities. The van was taken from a private drive and contained tools used by a group of volunteers known as Community Support Initiative who work in Newton Aycliffe wherever there might be a need for their skills. Enter our amazing Newton Aycliffe Police and PCSO Matthew Walls, who used his local contacts to mobilise the assistance needed. The Allotment Association were contacted and helped with some of the damage at the school and Rotary members, Geoff Batchelor and Gary Blenkinsopp stepped in to replace some of the equipment stolen with the van. Gary is a manager at local company, @Husqvarna, and very soon a lawnmower and strimmer were generously donated by the firm and gratefully received by the volunteers. All in all, a great example of partnership working. Any information on the above-mentioned crimes can be reported to PCSO Walls at the Police Office. Community Support Initiative are contactable via their Facebook page by any resident in genuine need of assistance with grass cutting, garden tidying etc.