EXTRA community policemen could be drafted into north Wiltshire to help tackle petty crimes such as vandalism and threatening behaviour.

Up to nine new police community support officers (PCSOs), who support regular officers by liaising with communities, could go on the beat this August.

Residents have welcomed Wiltshire Police's move, praising the success of the scheme since it was introduced last year.

The new officers, who will join eight currently on the beat in north and west Wiltshire, will be funded through the Home Office and local authorities, with some town council's already pledging thousands of pounds.

PCSOs have already made a mark in Chippenham, tackling anti-social behaviour on estates such as Pewsham and Redland.

Inspector Neil Bagnall, of Chippenham Police, said: "The benefit of police community support officers is that they have time to walk around a particular area and get to know local residents and shopkeepers."

Ross Henning, North Wiltshire District Council's lead member for community safety, said town, district and the county council as well as community safety groups would have to work together to make the best use of extra officers.

"My understanding is they will move into an area and address the needs there and then move on to any one of the towns in north Wiltshire," he said.

Corsham Town Council has already earmarked £5,000 from its reserves to help fund the proposal.

Chairman Jock Fraser said: "All the town councils in north Wiltshire have been asked for a contribution of about £7,000 a year for at least three years.

"It seems problems will get worse as the evenings get longer so having the PCSOs will be vital."

Inspector Simon Message, of Corsham Police, welcomed the move.

"PCSOs are not bogged down with the paper work police officers are," he said. "Their role is to be out there and be a reassurance to the public."

The new recruits, aged 19 to 55, will have a range of powers including asking for the name and address of suspects.