A new text-messaging service is the latest way to contact neighbourhood policing teams (NPTs) in Bradford.

People are encouraged to use the service to tell the Bradford South team about crime and anti-social behaviour or to contact the area’s beat officer or PCSO.

The scheme, which started today, has already proved successful in other divisions. Among other things, it has helped to track down a missing person and enabled police to respond to an incident reported to them by someone who could only speak French – officers deciphered the message using a text translation service.

Chief Inspector Paul Hepworth, who heads the Bradford South NPTs, said: “We are always looking at new and innovative ways to improve our links with the public and to improve the service we provide, and this adds to our strength.

“For many of us texting is almost a way of life, especially for the younger generation and it has already proved its worth as demonstrated.

“At Bradford South we are keen to look at new technologies as well as the tried and tested communication routes.”

To contact your area’s NPT, text 07950 080248 and start the message with the appropriate ‘Start Words’ as below. For City Ward, the start word is NPT1; for Bowling, Barkerend and Bradford Moor it is NPT2; for Tong and Wyke it is NPT3; for Queensbury, Royds and Wibsey it is NPT4; for Great Horton and Little Horton it is NPT5; for Manningham and Toller it is NPT6.