POLICE presence in Arley looks set to be stepped up - and the question of CCTV is also on the agenda.

The village can expect to see its new beat manager PC Rosie Wood more often thanks to a rethink on how the new North Worcestershire Police division works.

A spokeswoman said the launch of the new structure on April 1 heralded a new approach to crime in Arley with a move towards "local policing" as opposed to responding to crimes.

This will mean PC Wood talking to schools, residents and the parish council about issues which concern them, she added.

And top of the agenda for the new police officer is to look at the possibility of installing CCTV in the village.

Parish council chairman Charles Beer said villagers would like to see at least one camera installed in a bid to crack down on vehicle crime.

Mr Beer said: "We have had a number of vehicles broken into and stolen over the last few years and so one camera on the main road in and out of town would be very useful.

"There is grant money available and the council will be looking into the costs of such a scheme."

A CCTV demonstration has also been arranged for the next parish council meeting on April 23 while the council has agreed to approach Opportunity Bewdley, a charity set up to secure grants, for help with the project.

PC Wood, who is considering a CCTV feasibility study, said: "We are looking at increasing police activity in the area to create a more visible presence. We want to create a strong partnership with the community."

Mr Beer said: "We are pleased with the enthusiasm PC Wood has shown. It is important for the police to be able to put names to faces in the village and to talk to people about what concerns them."