THE POLICE community support officer for Topsham said progress had been made to address a number of priorities set at the town s last PACT meeting. Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, speeding, and cycling and parking on footways, were named as the fou

THE POLICE community support officer for Topsham said progress had been made to address a number of priorities set at the town's last PACT meeting.

Alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, speeding, and cycling and parking on footways, were named as the four issues of concern at the panel meeting held last October.

In terms of speeding issues, PCSO Percy Giles, said: "I am going out at least four times a month with my SID machine (a speed indication device).

"I take it to places such as Exeter Road, Denver, Elm Grove and Clyst Roads - areas that have been highlighted by members of the public.

"And, thanks to the public consultation we held in the town and through the work of councillor Andrew Leadbetter, the 20mph speed zone measures have been approved.

"It is just a case of waiting for that to be implemented."

Speaking about alcohol-related anti-social behaviour concerns, Mr Giles added: "There was a licensees meeting last month where we brought down the licensing officer from Devon and Cornwall police.

"We highlighted the issues we had at the carnival and also the Topsham Ten. The licensees all agreed to put a cap on the number of drink they were willing to serve groups.

"Also, water will be made available on the bars free of charge for people to help themselves. This will help them hydrate and sober up.

"Topsham welcomes large groups of people out on social occasions but we would like them to be respectful of residents by keeping noise to a minimum and mindful of their behaviour.