Cops call in the cavalry

Jul 31 2008 By Robert Cumber

Police horse

Mounted police and dog handlers could be drafted in to stamp out a growing tide of violence across Feltham and Hanworth.

Police are growing increasingly concerned about a wave of serious attacks, which culminated in two youths being stabbed after a house party last weekend.

Despite cash shortages, Hounslow's top cop has promised to put more officers on the streets on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the summer to tackle the growing problem and has put in a bid for mounted police and dog handlers to back them up.

Borough commander David Bilson said: "We're going to put some more very visible policing at times when we know antisocial behaviour's likely to occur.

"We will also start long-term plans to address the issues of antisocial behaviour, focusing on about 20 people we think are the most persistent offenders."

A 21-year-old boy nearly died after being stabbed twice and a girl of 16 was also knifed after violence erupted at a bash in Uxbridge Road, Hanworth, last Saturday.

Anyone with information can call Hounslow CID on 020 8247 6160 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.