A NEW British Transport Police neighbourhood team has started patrolling the railways in Redbridge.

The team is working in partnership with staff from train operator National Express East Anglia and aims to reduce instances of crime and anti-social behaviour on trains travelling through and around Ilford, where they will be based.

Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said at the launch: “During the election campaign I promised Londoners that I would make our suburban stations safer and this team of officers will make an important contribution towards delivering that pledge.

"They will work hard to tackle local concerns on anti social behaviour, fare evasion and drug use. These officers further underline our commitment to tackling antisocial behaviour and crime, and ensuring Londoners can go about their business with a feeling of safety and security.”

The team of consists of an experienced police sergeant and six police constables.

It will cover train services between Stratford and Romford including at Ilford, Seven Kings, Goodmayes and Chadwell Heath.

Transport Police Inspector Jenny Gilmer, who will oversee the team, said passengers travelling on the stretch of line can expect to see a more visible police presence.

She added: "The team will regularly engage in crime reduction surgeries and will be conducting operations that target knife crime and drug carrying. They will work to become familiar faces in and around the stations in which they work.”