While overall crime in the UK has been falling for some time, I know that this is not a reality recognised or enjoyed by all.

I believe that everyone deserves the security and confidence that comes from having a safe street.

That is why I welcome the Government's publication of its Beating Crime Plan, setting out the Government’s strategy for reducing crime in line with its ambition to level up the country.

Last week, I met with Cheshire Police & Crime Commissioner, John Dwyer, to discuss initiatives already underway to tackle both organised and community-based crime in our area and the work of Cheshire Police to address concerns about knife crime in Winsford.

I also met recently with operational police officers to discuss the issue of dangerous roads in Eddisbury and cyber crime - an unseen issue that can seriously impact residents and businesses and that we should all try to prevent. I have shared information with local schools, too.

It’s encouraging that non-emergency police 101 call response times in Cheshire have reduced by 65 per cent, and I know our local force is working hard on its 999 response times. This challenge is shared by North West Ambulance Service, and I am also monitoring their efforts.

Furthermore, the Government has already legislated - in response to Putin’s horrific and unjust war on Ukraine - to crack down on dirty money in the UK and tackle often-anonymous corrupt elites who underpin his leadership, so that they cannot hide behind secretive chains of shell companies, and are correctly sanctioned thanks to a reformed scheme.

Finally, I would like to reassure you that I understand the importance of addressing rural crime in Cheshire. I have liaised directly with the Cheshire Rural Crime team on several cases that have come to my attention - from agricultural machinery theft to illegal fly-tipping.

I will continue to make a priority bearing down on these types of criminal activity that materially, financially and often emotionally affect my constituents.

Please do read more and fill in my rural crime survey at edwardtimpson.com/ruralcrime.

Sadly, we will never be crime-free as a society. Still, between Eddisbury residents highlighting their concerns, and responsive operational policing, we can keep on top of the criminals in our drive to ensure that crime doesn’t pay.