They say that recent feedback shows people in Sussex are noticing the difference that neighbourhood policing makes and predict that in the months ahead residents will notice even more of a difference.

Assistant Chief Constable Robin Merrett said, "We believe we are on to a winning formula. We already have dedicated neighbourhood specialist teams in all areas throughout the force.

"We have now been given funding by the Police Authority to increase this resource by a further 47 police officers in the year ahead.

"The message we are getting through consultation and from the Police Authority is that the people of Sussex are keen to see more resources put into local policing.

"And this is what we are going to deliver."

Not only will the number of police officers serving in neighbourhood teams be boosted — more special constables are being recruited into these teams to join the existing police officers, PCSOs and police staff working with partners in other agencies.

Every division will benefit from the growth that will take place over the next 12 months, though extra resources will be targeted to those areas where demand is greatest.

The next few months could also see increases in the number of neighbourhood teams — there are currently 53 across the force.

Police Authority member Cllr Bob Tidy, lead member on neighbourhood policing, said, "The people I speak to in Sussex welcome the development of neighbourhood policing. They tell me that, provided this is where their money is going, they are prepared to pay for it.

"I am very pleased that, despite the pressures on our budget, the authority has been able to find the money to invest further in neighbourhood policing across Sussex."

Eastbourne Police chief Dick Coates, said for people in Eastbourne, increased investment in neighbourhood policing will mean more uniformed officers on the streets, dealing with issues such as antisocial behaviour, more opportunities to talk to local policing teams and raise with them the issues that are causing concern and more partnership working with other agencies to create safe and secure neighbourhoods.

Chf Insp Coates said, "Neighbourhood policing is already strong within Eastbourne and we will be able to provide an even better service with this investment.

"Together with our partners we are truly engaging with communities and are beginning already to see significant results.

"People can contact their local police by calling or e-mailing their neighbourhood specialist teams.

"Find out who they are by logging on to www.sussex.police.uk and keying in your postcode, or call 0845 60 70 999."