During the Wimbledon fortnight, the present town centre warden, Joanne Brooks, and her replacement, Neil Robinson, did an excellent job of assisting, directing and supporting visitors to Wimbledon.

The wardens liased over 100 times with Merton CCTV, local security, town centre police officers and town centre management. Over 30 cases of suspicious behaviour, 18 illegal street trading offences, and 8 thefts from shops were reported, along with the continual moving on of street beggars.

Many visitors and local residents expressed their thanks and support for the Neighbourhood Warden Scheme, with the Town Centre Wardens being seen not only as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour and crime, but also as an ambassador for the town centre itself, when being observed by visitors from near and afar.

Warden Supervisor, Ian Fall said:

” I feel events such as the Wimbledon Championships, which provide challenges for all agencies and groups in Wimbledon, allow the warden scheme to show its depth and diversity in the town centre setting.

“It was a team effort between town centre management, the police, business and Merton Council, a fair proportion of the wardens work is to act as a link when dealing with partner agencies and organisations.”

Joanne Brooks is leaving in August to join the Metropolitan Police; Merton wishes to thank her for her professional and dutiful service, and welcomes Neil Robinson into the role. Neil has had years of experience as part of the Centre Court shopping centre security team, a fantastic grounding for his new role.

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