On the beat to secure patrol members

Satisfaction with keeping the streets safe is not enough to drag most people out of bed in the morning, but it has kept Palmerston North's community patrol going for 10 years.

The volunteer group, who act as eyes and ears for the Palmerston North police, want to boost their numbers so they can increase the frequency and coverage of their patrols. The 30 volunteers have only one marked car to patrol Palmerston North and Ashhurst, but would like to buy a second vehicle.

A new one will cost between $8000 and $10,000, so the patrol have to rely on charitable trusts and donations for the money.

Chairman John Walters said having about 60 members would strengthen their case for a new car.

Patrol members are needed to work at least four hours a month, mostly at night and in the early hours of the morning. They watch for unattended vehicles, suspicious people, drunk drivers, parks, schools, unsecured premises and activated alarms.

Administrator Rose Williamson said the job was not dangerous, because patrol members always stayed in their cars. "Really, we need people that are prepared to stay out longer, because that's when I think we are of most benefit to police."

The patrol members often acted as a deterrent to potential criminals.

Anyone wanting to be a community patrol member can call the group on 351 3696.

- © Fairfax NZ News