The first purpose built mobile police unit has been launched in County Down to operate as an enquiry and advice centre as well as being used for operational policing in the area.

The vehicle can be utilised day and night due to high-powered external lighting for any policing operation including road traffic collisions, community events or serious crime scenes.

Chief Superintendent Bobby Hunniford, District Commander, said: "Our plan is to use this mobile incident vehicle to bring policing closer to the local community in the Newry and Mourne area, making access and approachability easier for the public.

"It is a high visibility vehicle, which I hope will provide reassurance and further enhance the service provided by police in these areas. The mobile unit has already been used effectively, with positive feedback from the public on the facilities available. It will also provide additional reassurance to the community by providing an extra point of contact with the police, and enhancing the visibility of local officers."

The local community will be able to visit the mobile unit and speak directly with local police officers regarding crimes, community safety issues and other concerns impacting on quality of life that police officers can improve.

The mobile unit has already been utilised recently at two large events in the area, the Kilkeel fish festival and a vintage car event at Warrenpoint, where over 600 people visited the unit to learn more about its unique capabilities.

The key aim of this unique unit is to increase public confidence by making the police more accessible and visible.

(EF/KMcA)