Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland joined police officers on patrol across Stevenage on Thursday night.

Stephen said: “I wanted to go out on patrol with police in Stevenage to reassure residents that our town is safe. The arson attacks in Bedwell did increase fear in the area but they were not linked to the national disorder we have seen in London - those rioters are nothing more than pathetic thugs engaged in criminal activity. There are no excuses for their behaviour. It is disgraceful that they feel it is okay to steal or destroy other people's property and this will not be tolerated in Hertfordshire.

Stephen added, "The police have a vast array of resources available to them and the officers I was with on Thursday night were very professional and committed. I am very impressed with their determination to keep Stevenage safe for local residents and I certainly felt reassured seeing them in action."