Urgent calls for action following violent attacks on the elderly at West Midlands beauty spot
String of concerning attacks around Sandwell Valley
A Black Country MP is calling for more police and council staff in the wake of violent attacks on the elderly at a popular beauty spot.
Sarah Coombes, MP for West Bromwich, said hosted a public meeting following a string of concerning attacks around Sandwell Valley.
She said two violent attacks on elderly residents for their jewellery were followed by a number of break-ins and robberies in the area. The MP has said this has highlighted concerns from residents about their safety locally.
Miss Coombes called for an increase in the number of council environmental protection officers to deter anti-social behaviour and prevent further safety incidents in the park, alongside longer-term solutions such as an increased police presence to tackle criminal activity.
The MP has been leading the ‘Reclaim the Valley’ campaign, to rebuild residents’ confidence and cut down on violence and anti-social behaviour since an alleged rape in June.
More than 70 residents took part in a march through the park in August, which was also attended by police and Sandwell Council officials.
Miss Coombes said: “I was completely appalled by the recent attacks in our community which were targeted at elderly residents.
“I am pleased the police are taking safety issues seriously and I’m glad we’ve seen an increased police presence locally.
“After the sexual attack that happened earlier this year, residents are rightfully concerned about levels of crime in the valley. Everyone has the right to feel safe where they live. That’s why I’m hosting this meeting to update the community on what I am doing to support them, and I am inviting the police and council to answer questions from residents too.”