Phil Wilkinson-Jones

West Mercia’s police and crime commissioner John Campion defended the use of unmarked police vehicles, arguing they are essential for addressing unsafe driving behaviors that motorists often conceal when near marked patrol cars. Responding to a councillor’s suggestion to convert unmarked vehicles to increase visibility, he said unmarked units help detect offences beyond speeding, such as mobile phone use. Campion illustrated their effectiveness with an example of an unmarked motorbike intervening in dangerous riding. He maintained that although unmarked vehicles make up a small portion of the fleet, they are an important tool for road safety.

Fraud victims in the West Mercia area reported losses of £23.8 million in 2025, with most cases involving individuals. Investment and banking fraud accounted for the largest financial losses, while courier fraud has seen a recent rise, disproportionately affecting older people. Police warn that officers will never request personal or financial information unexpectedly and urge victims to contact their bank and report incidents through official fraud-reporting channels.

Worcester City Council is working to raise its recycling rate through renewed public education led by waste officer Lauren Jackson, who has increased engagement with schools, universities and community groups while targeting flats and HMOs where contamination is high. Joint efforts with Platform Housing have reduced fly-tipping, and a personalised feedback trial cut contamination by 32 percent while boosting residents’ confidence. The council remains 10 percent below the national recycling average but expects food waste collections, planned for 2027, to significantly improve performance. Councillors praised the proactive approach, though contamination and incorrect disposal continue to distort recycling metrics.