Police have upped their presence around a city park following an increase in drug-related activity in the area. 

Norfolk's chief constable Paul Sanford joined officers earlier this month as they patrolled neighbourhoods close to Jenny Lind Park in NR2.

The decision came after feedback from locals at the latest Norwich South Safer Neighbourhood Action Panel (Snap) priority-setting meeting. 

Norwich Evening News: Police have stepped up their presence around Jenny Lind ParkPolice have stepped up their presence around Jenny Lind Park (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesman for Norfolk Constabulary said: "Anti-social behaviour in Suffolk Square and Jenny Lind Park was chosen as one of the Snap priorities.

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"In response to this officers have increased time in and around these areas conducting foot patrols and speaking to locals.

"We encourage people to report any incidents to us via 101 or the Norfolk Police website."

Norwich Evening News: Jenny Lind ParkJenny Lind Park (Image: Denise Bradley)

The news comes as Norwich continues to face soaring cases of anti-social behaviour. 

In July, this newspaper reported a 10pc increase between 2022 and 2023 - a figure local councillors argued was the result of government cuts to social services and increased pressure on police.

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Almost half of the cases took place in Norwich East, while the north of the city saw incidents rise by more than 42pc.

Cops in Norwich East have also recently announced a crackdown on anti-social behaviour - particularly around the city centre.

Norwich Evening News: Deputy leader of the Labour Group at Norfolk County Council, Emma CorlettDeputy leader of the Labour Group at Norfolk County Council, Emma Corlett (Image: Emma Corlett)

This includes a focus on key areas such as Bowthorpe, Hellesdon and New Catton, as well as public parks.

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Speaking on the issues in NR2, Labour county councillor for the Town Close division, Emma Corlett, said: "The local community, community organisations and public services continue to work closely together on tackling issues in the area. 

"Police involvement is one small but important part of this."

The next Norwich South Snap meeting is being held at St Marks Church Hall in Hall Road at 7pm on Tuesday, December 5, with locals encouraged to attend.