A POLICE chief is inviting pensioners from across the Teesside area to discuss their community safety concerns with him over a cup of tea and a mince pie.

Cleveland’s Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger will be discussing his plans for his next year in office and inviting comments from older residents to ensure their views are incorporated in his Police and Crime Plan.

There will also be crime prevention advice available, information on local neighbourhood policing and a variety of stands giving advice on services available to assist older people.

He said: “I am keen to get the views of all sectors of the community as I move into my second year in office. I have attended over 100 community meetings in all of Cleveland’s 82 wards, but I wanted to host this event with a particular focus on older people to ensure their views are not missed.

“I recognise that not all people will be able to make this event and am always happy to visit groups within their localities so would urge anyone who can’t make the Pensioner Drop In to contact my office and arrange a separate visit.”

The event will be taking place between 10am and noon on Friday (December 20) at Police Headquarters, Ladgate Lane, Middlesbrough.

He has also arranged to visit the Hartlepool Over 50s Forum in January to hear their concerns.

Anyone wishing to attend, or who would like to arrange a separate visit should contact Sarah Wilson on 01642-301446, or sarah.wilson@cleveland.pnn.police.uk