WELCOME to my first column of 2011. This year will no doubt throw up many challenges, especially around the ongoing financial pressures the country faces.

The police have not been immune from this and plans are being drawn up to ensure that frontline delivery to you is not affected.

The Police Authority has a key role in this planning and is keen to hear the views of as many people as possible. It will be holding a webcast between 2pm and 3pm on Wednesday, January 12, at www.westmerciapoliceauthority.gov.uk . This will include a live debate involving the Chief Constable Paul West. There will also be a public consultation meeting in the lecture theatre at force headquarters at Hindlip at 7pm on January 11, which will be an opportunity for people to comment on policing priorities and force proposals to achieve savings. If you wish to attend please ring 01743 264690.

Some people anticipate that in difficult financial times crime rates automatically go up.

While here in Wyre Forest we have experienced a slight rise in total recorded crime in 2010, the good news is that there have been fewer burglaries, less vehicle crime and less criminal damage. All good news!

As ever we can all do our bit to keep crime levels low. One topical example at this time of year is the temptation to leave your car defrosting before using it.

Opportunist criminals are waiting for unsuspecting victims and even here in Wyre Forest such thefts can and have happened. Obviously, you must not drive when the car windows are not clear but please remain with your car at all times while clearing it of snow or ice or warming it up.

When the weather is bad it’s worth taking a few additional precautions.

For example, favour major roads which are more likely to have been gritted; carry a mobile phone with fully charged battery, torch, first-aid kit, tow rope, blankets, warm coat and boots, an old sack or rug (to put under the wheels if you do get stuck); select second gear when pulling away and let the clutch out gently to avoid wheel spin.

Gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving.

INSP PAUL CROWLEY, KIDDERMINSTER POLICE