The wardens will tackle anti-social behaviour Photo: Daisy Bowie-Sell

A new community safety initiative in Hackney has seized a firearm, three knives and a batch of cannabis: all on its very first day.

The new Community Safety Wardens service launches officially on 1 March, but after completing their training last week the team hit the streets for the first time with impressive results.

The 12 new recruits will be a point of contact between Hackney residents and police on matters of community safety. Their powers will include issuing fixed penalty notices for offences such as littering, graffiti and dog fouling, and also demanding the names and addresses of those who engage in anti-social behaviour.

They will work with the police, council and emergency services to inform them of incidents as they happen and direct teams to areas where they are most needed.

David Shipp, joint Lead Community Safety Warden, said:  “The wardens extensive training programme means they can support the work of the Drug and Alcohol Action Team, the Sharps Disposal Unit and the Anti Social Behaviour service.

“We will also seek to educate residents in the key services we provide and will work in partnership to keep our streets and parks clean and safe. ”

The wardens have also undergone training with the councils Sustainable Transport Team and will be able to provide safety advice to cyclists.

Councillor Sophie Linden, Cabinet Member for Crime, Sustainability and Customer Services, said: “The new Community Safety Warden service has already proved that a joined-up, intelligence-led approach achieves results.

“This partnership working is key to the success of the service as well as making Hackney a safer place to live and work.”

To contact your neighbourhood Warden regarding an issue affecting your community, call 0208 356 6867. For more information about the service, visit: www.hackney.gov.uk/safercommunities.