Toys needed for police station

Police are appealing for families to donate their unwanted toys to help children who come into contact with officers as witnesses or victims of crime.

The room at March Police Station was used by Cambridgeshire Constabulary mechanics, but is now getting a makeover.

The local inspector, Ian Lombardo, has requested the renovation of the office, including new furniture, in readiness for its new life as an interview suite.

The room will be used by experienced officers as they interview parents and children about serious crimes like domestic abuse and sexual assaults. Any child taken into police protection in the Fenland area over concerns for their welfare will also be interviewed at the unit.

Parents in Fenland are being asked to donate toys, books and puzzles to help distract the children who find themselves in the new interview room.

Inspector Ian Lombardo from Cambridgeshire Constabulary said: “I want to ask the Fenland community for their help. Do you have any toys, puzzles or books that you no longer need and that you are willing to donate to help children who for whatever reason find themselves at March Police Station? The busy atmosphere of an operational police station can be uncomfortable for children, making the experience even more stressful for them and for their parents.”

Donations of toys and other items can be left at Wisbech or March police stations.

Should police receive a larger than required amount of donations these will be shared across the county to help provide support to children across Cambridgeshire.