THE Chief Constable of Cambridgeshire Police has backed Community Support Officers, saying the force could not do without them. They were introduced in 2003, but were criticised last month for failing to solve crimes. Chief Constable Julie Spence said: W

THE Chief Constable of Cambridgeshire Police has backed Community Support Officers, saying the force could not do without them.

They were introduced in 2003, but were criticised last month for failing to solve crimes.

Chief Constable Julie Spence said: "We can deliver a far better service with them than we could before. They are the eyes and ears of officers and communities."

Feedback at the latest safer neighbourhood panel in March saw PCSOs praised.

It comes after PCSO Dawn Rae and the neighbourhood policing team foiled a gang of graffiti 'taggers' after noticing one tag appearing on street furniture.

After making enquiries she discovered a group of youths who were regular 'taggers' in the area and arrested those responsible.

March Sergeant Alan Boughen said: "As well as providing reassurance, PCSOs have been building relationships with the youths in the town.