HUMBERSIDE'S Police and Crime Commissioner has highlighted the importance of working with the police to improve the local community.
Matthew Grove gave a speech to residents of the East Marsh, in Grimsby.
He said: "I have spent a lot of my time here in Grimsby and on the East Marsh.
"I think it is very important to show that I am interested in what people have to say.
"I am a servant of the public and that is what I am here to do. My job is about listening to the concerns of the public.
"The best way for me to hear the public is to come and meet them.
"The police need the help of the public and to do this we have to show the police want to hear people's concerns."
Mr Grove was speaking at the annual general meeting of community group East Marsh Involve, which was led by ward councillor Steve Beasant.
He said: "The Crime Commissioner has come here to get input from the local residents on the issues they face
"It is very important for him to come here and hear things first hand.
"He will hear not only the negative people have to say but the positive feedback from the actions he has taken with the help of the police.
"Our aim is not only to solve problems but to help the residents create a positive attitude in their areas.
"The first point of action to help reduce and tackle crime is to report it to the police.
"The police don't know about every crime that is occurring unless the public tell them.
"Only then can the police take action."
Mr Grove added: "Here at this meeting in this very room is where I made my first visit to Grimsby as the police commissioner.
"Coming back here again means I can get the feedback from the residents on what they want and how current services are working."
East Marsh Involve is a neighbourhood forum where residents can discuss issues that affect them, anything from crime to antisocial behaviour.
If you have any concerns regarding your local environment, policing matters, housing problems or health issues, visit one of the meetings to voice your opinion.
The East Marsh Involve forum meets on the last Tuesday of every month, usually starting at 6pm at the Grimsby Neighbourhood Centre at the junction of Wellington Street and Weelsby Street. For more information, visit www.eastmarsh.org.uk
ON THE WEB: For more policing news from our area, visit www.grimsbyteleg raph.co.uk/crime
