That was the message from members of Ryedale’s police force – and their partner agencies – at a number of events last week to show how they are tackling crime and disorder across the district.

Now in its second year, the nationwide campaign included police surgeries and patrols of towns and villages, the launch of a new initiative to prevent under- 18s from getting access to alcohol and the offer of a crime prevent- ion DVD for farmers and horse owners.

And PC Jane Jones, of Malton’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, was invited by Malton School pupils to talk about the consequences of anti-social behaviour – particularly in relation to fireworks and mischief night.

Malton School head girl Rosie Buckland said: “We are always standing up for our young people in the community – the vast majority are delightful, well-mannered and very positive, a credit to their families and the school. But it is always good to let everyone have the full facts about the law and the consequences of actions which some might judge ‘a bit of fun,’ but which to others can be harmful, irritating or offensive.”

To end Not In My Neighbourhood Week, the police led the latest round of Operation Siren on Malton Road, Pickering, on Thursday.

The ongoing initiative, which involves the police, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and the county council's road safety teams, looks to educate motorists about the dangers of speeding.

Nine drivers, who were caught driving between 35 and 40mph along Malton Road, were given a 30 minute “wake-up” talk, featuring pictures and videos of local crashes, about the consequences of travelling even a few miles per hour above the speed limit.

Malton firefighter Stuart Hopkin, who has seen around 30 fatalities on Ryedale's roads in the past ten years, said the majority of people appreciate what the multi-agency team is trying to do.

“You do get one or two that think they would rather spend thousands and thousands of pounds recuperating someone after a car accident than spend the money for us to be here for the day,” said the Red Watch crew manager, who added it is part of his paid duties to educate the public about the dangers of speeding.

And PC Terry Triffitt, of Ryedale Police, said: “Had we had 50 vehicles, which we sometimes have, you could say that is good result but I would say that shows a serious problem. It’s quite pleasing to see the low numbers.”

He added: “The good thing is that people have seen we are doing something positive about speeding motorists.”