TOTAL SPONSOR POLICE OFFICE IN ALLENTON

A Total site has set up a mobile police office on its forecourt to combat crime. Staff at the Total site in Allenton had problems with youths hanging around the premises, drinking alcohol and causing a nuisance.

Managers at Total suggested having a permanent police presence on site and a small white cabin has now been set up on the forecourt. This mobile police station is funded by Total.

A Police spokesman said: "The police and the petrol station working together shows a good partnership and it links us with the community. "Since it's been here, we've had members of the public coming in and asking about it. They're interested in why we are there and what it is we're doing. Local residents are becoming aware of its presence. It reassures residents of Alvaston and Allenton, knowing that a police officer or PCSO is here. People know where they can find us and it makes us more approachable."

The mobile office is used by police and PCSOs in between patrols. They can complete forms without having to return to the main police office.