HyPER said its goodbyes to the Royal Parks Police, who sadly disbanded recently, on the 31st October. The farewell took place at the last Safer Parks Panel in its current form, which (given the circumstances) was a lively affair and a good send off for the team.
As well as saying goodbye and thanks to old faces, we also met and heard from members of ward police teams who will take on the responsibilities.
The Royal Parks police had developed successful tactics to target snatches (such as phones) and they have advised the ward teams on this.
The good new is that 3 of the ward teams will be relocating to the Old Police House in the middle of the park (a total of approximately 40 people). This will at least ensure good coverage of the parks as police arrive and depart!
The Royal Parks themselves have been preparing for transition, including the fixed-term appointment for 2 years of a head of security.