Man sitting every day on bench asking for ‘change’ – beside Cranford Way / Highfield Lane

Reported to WhatsApp Group 24/06/24:

Man sitting every day for a few hours on a bench beside Cranford Way, off Highfield Lane, with his bike. He apparently asks passerbys if they have any ‘spare change’ and ‘smokes’ (parents are always accompanied with children and he is only interested in what the parents can offer). This is directed to people on either side of the road.

This is on the main route to/from Highfield School.

Advice sought by NCJ and received from PC A O’N. Cllr B provided more info on the man’s situation after chat. NCJ sought advice: Cllr F informed Community Safety Wardens and Cllr S contacted the police. PCSO HM has patrolled the area while on lates and will continue to patrol the area; no one there now.