WORRIES have been raised about police response times and drugs in drinking spots.

Members of the Keswick Pubwatch group have met with Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall to discuss their concerns.

Pubwatch is a group of organisations whose aim is to promote a safer drinking environment in the area in which they operate.

During the meeting, pub owners discussed the issues that they and their staff face and raised concerns about things such response times and drugs.

Gary Quigley, vice-chairman of Keswick Pubwatch Scheme, said: “Members felt it was beneficial for our police and crime commissioner to hear their concerns about Policing and the drug concerns around Keswick.

“We hope Mr McCall took onboard our concerns and point of views, he did help by alleviating some of our concerns.”

They also thanked the crime commissioner for accepting the invitation to attend their meeting.

Peter McCall told the pub owners that Keswick has not been forgotten by the police and that Cumbria Police consistently pick up 999 calls within seconds.

The crime commissioner also told Pubwatch members that the extra money raised from the recent council tax rises had been spent on proactive policing, and, more recently, the creation of a new digital crime unit to tackle cyber-crime.

Peter McCall, Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Keswick is still relatively a very safe place to live, work and visit but there are still public safety issues especially when alcohol and drugs are involved, and working with Pubwatch is key to keeping on top of these issues.

“I am grateful for the active role played by Keswick Pubwatch helping to tackle issues which could potentially cause harm to or ruin the experience of their customers and local residents.”