A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour in Suffolk was today boosted with the introduction of 12 new community support officers (CSOs).The posts will be paid for by the government for the first 15 months, with 75 per cent of the cost met for the following year.

A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour in Suffolk was today boosted with the introduction of 12 new community support officers (CSOs).

The posts will be paid for by the government for the first 15 months, with 75 per cent of the cost met for the following year.

Joanna Spicer, of Suffolk Police Authority, said she was pleased with the extra resources but added the force may have to find money to meet the cost in the long term.

Currently, Suffolk has 15 CSOs but is struggling to balance next year's budget.

She said: "I welcome the appointment but it's important we realise the funding is short-lived and we'll therefore need to keep a close check on how effective they are.

"We could make plans to continue the funding if we feel they're serving the people of Suffolk."

Neighbourhoods in all 43 areas of the country will receive a total of 1,600 extra officers, funded by an extra £50million of Home Office cash.

Home Office minister Hazel Blears said: "I'm committed to maintaining police numbers, while putting in place a total of 24,000 community support officers across the country by the end of 2008.

"I'm encouraged every force in England and Wales has applied for funding, illustrating the police service's support for the officers.

"The massive expansion of community CSOs will support the fight against anti-social behaviour."

Last month, Ipswich was named as one of 50 Together Action Areas. It is an initiative designed to crackdown on anti-social behaviour, with the police, council and residents working together.

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