A DETERMINED pensioner has launched a petition to get bobbies back on the beat in Droitwich Spa.

Jean-Marie Sparkes has collected more than 200 signatures from folk who want a police officer patrolling Westlands. The position was axed 12 months ago.

With backing from Westlands Forward and residents, she hopes to get a further 800 people to sign.

Although the petition focuses on the estate, Mrs Sparkes wants all Spa householders to demand a better service by launching similar initiatives.

The 66-year-old decided to take action when "uncontrollable" youths began breaking into her garden and vandalising her car.

She called police on several occasions but said getting an officer on the scene was virtually impossible.

The Meadow Piece resident read the Advertiser's front page last week, about a Victoria Avenue resident who slammed police for not cracking down on young hooligans in her neighbourhood, and was spurred on to continue her campaign.

Mrs Sparkes said: "I don't blame the officers, they are stretched to the limits.

"It's the big bosses who need to get in touch with the real world.

"If we are to feel safe and protected then we need a police presence to maintain law and order.

"I'm prepared to take my petition to the Prime Minister if I have to."

Droitwich Spa town councillor Joe Doody (Lab, Droit.West) believes incidents of petty crime and vandalism have escalated since the estate's beat officer was axed.

Wychavon geographical commander Insp Sharon Gibbons said: "Westlands is a low crime area. The beat management system is delivering positive, long-term solutions for the whole of Droitwich."