Otley police station opens its doors for fun day (From Wharfedale Observer)

Otley police station opens its doors for fun day

1:22pm Friday 14th September 2012 in News By Jim Jack

About 1,500 people visited Otley Police Station last weekend to find out more about the work local officers do.

Visitors to the Bridge Street station were given a tour of the cells and treated to a martial arts display at Aireborough and Wharfedale Neighbourhood Policing Team’s third annual open day on Saturday.

Crowds also enjoyed looking around a ‘murder scene’ and watching the X99 police helicopter hovering over the station on its way back to base after attending a nearby incident, while younger visitors enjoyed a bouncy castle and face painting.

Other attractions that proved a hit included the police horses, vintage vehicles and a fire engine, while crime prevention and anti-social behaviour advice was given by specialist officers and the force’s community partners, CASAC.

Inspector Richard Coldwell, who heads the Aireborough and Wharfedale team, said: “This has been the biggest and busiest open day we have held – it was fantastic to see the public turn out in such numbers.

“We hope everyone enjoyed the day and found it worthwhile and informative. I would like to thank everyone who contributed and supported us.”

A prize raffle, cake stall and donations raised £650 on the day, which will be shared between local charities. The neighbourhood policing team would like to thank local businesses, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and Yorkshire Ambulance Service for supporting the event.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) said: “Otley Police Station open day is a great chance for local people to learn more about what the local police do and what schemes there are to help reduce crime.

“It was also a lot of fun and really great to see the police and the community come together in this way.”