ALVECHURCH Parish Council has criticised police for what it has dubbed a "blatant lack of interest and lack of manners" regarding discussions about traffic calming measures in the village.

The parish council has written a letter to Chief Supt Mark Howard, of the West Mercia's North Worcestershire division, expressing its disappointment at the lack of action by police.

The letter, penned by clerk Yvonne Goode, claims parish councillors have been asking for talks with police about speed cameras since early this year.

She said they had also wanted to find out why Alvechurch could not be included in regular traffic warden patrolling.

"We have telephoned on numerous occasions to try to discuss this, culminating in two appointments arranged for Pc Julian Turner to visit parish council meetings and discuss the matter," the letter continues.

"On both occasions, he has not attended and no apologies have been sent."

Mrs Goode said they had decided to write directly to Chief Supt Howard to try to get some action on the matter.

In the letter, she adds: "While I appreciate the responsibility for this unit may not fall directly to you, I would be grateful if you could ensure our request reaches the necessary body to ensure action is taken."

And in response to the complaint, North Worcestershire's traffic manager Pc Turner said: "We are more than happy to meet members of Alvechurch Parish Council to discuss their concerns and issues in relation to traffic in the village.

"Unfortunately, we were unable to attend the last two meetings due to commitments."

He said they had written to the parish council stating they could not make the meetings and had asked for a further date and were now waiting for a response so they could attend the next meeting in December.