TORY councillors have launched a petition for more police officers to pound the beat in their ward.

Councillors Brian Beckwith, Peter Craske and Katie Perrior want Blackfen and Lamorbey to be declared a Safer Neighbourhood policing area.

This would bring extra police and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) into the area, who would not be called away for other duties elsewhere.

Safer Neighbourhood areas have their own police sergeant, two constables and three PCSOs.

Cllr Beckwith said: "It is important we try and ensure a visible police presence in Blackfen and Lamorbey ward.

"It is the only way we can work to drive down crime."

They hope to present the petition to the Met Police, Bexley's borough police commander and Bexley Council in the new year.

The petition is available for signing in shops and on the councillors' website at blackfenandlamorbey.com