Police beats moved to canal sides

Police will be patrolling the canal on a boat

An increase in crime around canal towpaths in Derbyshire is being investigated by police.

Officers are working with British Waterways to reduce fly tipping, vandalism and the number of break-ins near canals.

The move follows numerous calls from residents by the Erewash Canal, which runs through Sandiacre, complaining about anti-social behaviour.

Police are being taken along the canal by boat to cover the area better.

Speeding bikes

Pc Mark Dunn said: "Hopefully we will reassure people that live or work around the canals and towpaths.

"We are here and we are here to help.

"We hope it sends out a message to the people that are using and abusing the (canal) system that we are here."

Incidents reported include speeding motorbikes on towpaths which have knocked down walkers.

Thieves have also used the secluded canals to escape with stolen property such as bikes and the illegal dumping of sofas and fridges.