Richmond and Catterick

Richmondshire District covers 509 square miles and is actually larger than four English counties, but within its boundary live only 51,400 people (2007 estimate). Richmondshire is therefore one of the most sparsely populated areas in the country, its boundaries stretching from the River Tees over to Cumbria. The area is predominantly rural in character and a large part is situated in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The largest town is the historic market town of Richmond with its Norman Castle, cobbled market place, famous Georgian Theatre Royal and elegant Georgian buildings.

Catterick Garrison is the Army's largest base covering 2,400 acres and 20,000 acres of training land. It is the largest Military Garrison in Western Europe and home of the Infantry Training Centre where training is carried out for every Infantry soldier, including Ghurkhas. There are over 13,000 personnel, military, civilian and their dependants, living and working in the area.

Other local villages and town's include Scotton, Hipswell, Colburn and Brompton On Swale.

Two main arterial roads, the A1 North/South and the A66 East/West five miles from Richmond, give easy nationwide access.

Policing in the area is very diverse. Roads Policing and Partnership casualty reduction initiatives continue to ensure our roads remain as safe as possible.

Many people travel through the area, and whilst crime is very low we continue to work with Partners, Businesses, Watch schemes and residents to reduce crime and detect offences.

Local priorities are reviewed on a regular basis through consultation and my team of officers, Police Community Support Officers (PCSO`s) and Police staff are all dedicated to keeping Richmond and Catterick safe and pleasant places to live and work.