POLICE reinforcements have been pledged for Broadstairs during evenings and at weekends by the area commander, Supt Penny Martin.

A packed public meeting in the seaside town argued strongly with the police chief against her decision to reduced the town beat officers from two to one under a reorganisation scheme.

The town centre constable will not be reinstated but Supt Martin said that peak times for potential trouble would be better policed. She stressed that she was “impressed with the town’s support for the police, the strength of feeling over my decision, and the desire to remain a low crime area".

The town's Mayor, Jeffrey Kirkpatrick, town councillors and the chamber of commerce are leading the ‘safer streets’ campaign. Cllr Kirkpatrick said: “Improved policing at key times is a victory for common sense but we will still press for the community beat officer to be replaced. Feelings remain high and we have agreed with Supt Martin to review the situation in the summer.”

Cllr Kirkpatrick praised the Thanet Extra newspaper for its page one story highlighting the campaign. He said: “It gave it a terrific high profile and really brought the issues home to thousands of people.

“A copy of the story was sent to the chairman of the Kent Police Authority for consideration in this matter.”