Yesterday, Simon Clarke MP visited Coco & Rum, the fantastic Thai restaurant in Saltburn-by-the-Sea which was at the centre of the anti-social behaviour in town last week and weekend. Owner Shobu, still sporting a bruise on his cheek, showed Simon the CCTV footage of him and his staff being attacked, as well as the puncture marks in the back door made by one of the youths hacking away at it with a bladed instrument (see above). He was at pains to pay tribute to Councillor Philip Thomson, who has been in such close contact with him and the Police in recent days.
What happened is totally unacceptable, and Simon would like to thank everyone who attended the Neighbourhood Action Partnership meeting last night. They had a constructive conversation covering policing, licensing and activities for young people, with some very thought-provoking presentations and input from the public. Both local officers Inspector Fay Cole and Sergeant Jon Hutchinson shone - and rightly said how grateful they have been for the support they have received from the public since this all happened.
Simon will be meeting the Police and Crime Commissioner and the Chief Constable for more detailed talks about the configuration of East Cleveland policing tomorrow and will provide a further update after these.
In the meantime, Simon is keen to show three points stemming from last night:
"1) The Chief Constable emphasised how he will shortly be recruiting potentially hundreds more special constables, which I think is a brilliant idea. You can find more details here: https://careers.cleveland.police.uk/SpecialConst…/index.aspx
2) If you have thoughts about youth services in Saltburn and/or would be willing to help volunteer, please email me at simon.clarke.mp@parliament.uk and Philip at philip.thomson@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
3) I think the best way to support the brilliant team at Coco & Rum is to go there and have dinner - I did after the meeting and can thoroughly recommend number 19 (the classic duck and fried rice!). Let's support those who work to build something up, and show them how much we appreciate their efforts."