ONCE just woodlands and plantations, Harborne, which pre-dates its mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, is still a very picturesque spot to live, work and visit.

Lying just three miles south-west of Birmingham city centre, it is now home to thriving businesses and a bustling high street and if that’s not enough, it still has more reasons to boast.

That’s because it is the area with the lowest crime rate in West Midlands Police.

And Harborne Police Unit has not only managed to maintain its position, but also achieve a year-on-year reduction in crime – this year a 29 per cent fall across the board.

Compared to the previous year, there have been 228 fewer victims of crime overall and 25 fewer burglaries.

Headed up by Sgt Rachel Colston, the officers responsible for policing Harborne are Lead Pc Roberto Cooper and Pcs Darren Turner, Alex Flevin, Sherry Lea and Tudor Roberts. These officers are supported by PCSOs Ian Lowe, Sue Dufficy, Tess Howson-Wright, Marc Pearson, Dave Caughan, Charlotte Alcock and Jeff Dutch.

For Lead Pc Cooper the secret of the team’s success is not only its dedication, but also its close relationship with businesses through schemes like ShopWatch, PubWatch and a radio link up.

There also links to the community with several Neighbourhood Watch coordinators keeping their eyes peeled.

“We have eyes and ears everywhere really, which is brilliant” said Pc Cooper.