NIGHT-TIME police patrols in Broadway are essential if crime in the tourist-trap village is to be cut, Evesham's MP Peter Luff has warned.

In a letter to West Mercia chief constable Paul West, the Mid Worcestershire MP said: "I was particularly concerned to learn that shops have closed as a result of criminal activity; others have had to close for significant periods of time - up to a month - to repair damage, and others have taken the commercial decision to sell less prestigious brands, so losing revenue, to avoid being attractive to burglars.

"Many shops have had repeated break-ins - one shop closed after four break-ins in a short period.

"Another antique dealer moved to a mail order business only after five "visits" from well organised thieves."

Mr Luff, who sent his letter after meeting almost 30 traders who called for action, said: "They estimate there have been eight to ten ram-raids in the last year - a very high figure for a village of around 3,000 people.

"Many shops report higher insurance premiums as a result of criminal activity specific to Broadway and their premises. I am clear that crime in Broadway is having a serious impact on this important tourist centre. The bottom line is that local police must spend more time in the village."

Mr Luff said that if West Mercia was taken into a West Midlands superforce as the Home Secretary has indicated, the problems would become even more acute. Mr Luff called on the chief constable to take action in three specific areas - increase police presence to cut down on daytime anti-social behaviour, to curb drunken behaviour when pubs close and random night-time patrols to deter ram-raiders.

A spokesman for West Mercia Police confirmed that the Chief Constable had received Mr Luff's letter.

Chief Superintendent Rod Reynolds, Divisional Commander of South Worcestershire Police, was already due to meet Mr Luff to discuss a range of policing and community issues. Superintendent Martin Lakeman said: "We are clearly concerned that some local traders are unhappy with their perception of local policing in Broadway.

"We would be happy to attend a further meeting with them and Mr Luff to discuss their concerns."