Police Are Running Face-to-Face Events for the People of Ash

Published on: 11 Dec, 2025
Updated on: 12 Dec, 2025

Parish councillors Fiona White (second from left) and Carla Morson at the weekly “meet the police” event in Ash

By David Reading

Surrey police are running a three-month trial of a Community Policing Hub in Ash so that local people can meet officers face to face.

The move follows concerns about anti-social behaviour in the Ash area – specifically, the catapault attacks on wildlife that were reported during the summer along the Basingstoke Canal. Residents horrified by the attacks called for vigilance and police action.

The Surrey police community initiative, at the Ash Centre, is due to run until February pending further review.

Every Tuesday between midday and 4pm residents are able to speak with local officers face-to-face – a Neighbourhood Specialist Officer and a Community Support Officer. People are encouraged to discuss issues affecting the Ash community or report crimes.

Surrey police said: “We have spoken with many residents and addressed many concerns in person. We have also been joined by local councillors, housing associations, Guildford Borough Council staff as well as Ministry of Defence officers who cover Ash Ranges. It’s been a great opportunity for many partners to also be easily accessible.”

Cllr Carla Morson, Deputy Chair of Ash Parish Council, said: “We are delighted that the police hub is up and running – as a trial at present. We continue to encourage everyone who has need of police services to go along on a Tuesday afternoon to discuss any issues they may have.”

Following the three-month trial, the impact of the scheme will be reviewed. If successful, it will be extended.

The police said there had been a positive response to the scheme, adding: “Partner agencies are also attending, so the community can talk to staff from the council, housing associations or ASB teams.”