A Conservative government will work closely with voluntary groups who help to promote community safety and run activities for young people.

That was the pledge made by Shadow Home Secretary Chris Grayling MP when he met recently with a number of people involved in this type of work at Stafford Conservative Association.

Groups represented were Matthews Road Neighbourhood Watch, Wildwood Community Church, the Signposts Centre (Highfields) and the newly-formed Street Pastors group. County councillors John Francis and Ivan Jennings and Borough Council Leader Mike Heenan also attended to answer questions, as did a representative from Staffordshire Police.

Jeremy Lefroy, who arranged the meeting, said that he had wanted the Shadow Home Secretary to see the importance of the work done by such voluntary groups in Stafford in co-operation with the police.

Jeremy said: “One problem which was raised with Mr Grayling was that funding for such work is often short-term – perhaps for one or two years. Just as it is becoming established and results are seen, the money stops and a great deal of time is spent looking for other sources. Mr Grayling said that he appreciated the problem and would consider how a Conservative government could tackle it. This is an issue that I will continue to push so that the very worthwhile work being done by Stafford’s voluntary sector can continue unhindered.”