A MULTI-force sweep across Felixstowe to deal with low-level crime has today been hailed as a success.

A MULTI-force sweep across Felixstowe to deal with low-level crime has today been hailed as a success.

The sweep, called Operation Harness, involved police and fire officers, DVLA and vehicle inspectors, trading standards officers, education welfare staff, HM Customs, district and county council staff, Environment Agency and crime prevention officers.

They focussed on the seafront area and parts of the west of the resort, checking for unlicensed and abandoned vehicles, dealing with criminal damage and graffiti, dumped rubbish, dog fouling, truancy, litter dropping, and used speed cameras in traffic hotspots.

Vehicles were also taken to Garrison Lane car park for thorough examinations for offences, including mechanical faults, illegal fuel, and cargo they were carrying.

The team issued 28 inspection notices for vehicles, a number of warnings for speeding, and are investigating six matters of overdue car tax, four alleged fraudulent tax discs, and four alleged illegal vehicle number plates.

Education welfare officers made a number of home visits in connection with unauthorised absences from school.

Fire officers gave advice to homes and businesses on fire safety and cleared several blocked fire escapes, while trading standards officers spoke to shops about age limit restrictions concerning the sale of cigarettes and alcohol.

A spokesman for the team said the day had been a success dealing with issues residents had complained about, and also in encouraging agencies to work together, share intelligence and improve communication.

When the new police-led Safer Neighbourhood Teams come into operation next year, agencies will be working together every day on community issues.

Are activities like Operation Harness are a good idea? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk