Knife crime and the fear of knife crime severely impacts upon people’s lives and affects the community as a whole. I believe that Partnerships, like ours, are pivotal in combating this issue.

I am extremely pleased to continue our long-standing relationship with Charlton Athletic Football Club, particularly as many supporters live and work within Kent. Your effort in helping us to reduce crime and anti social behaviour over the last three years is recognised and valued by Kent Police and our communities.

Working as a team, CAFC, Kent schools and Kent Police have produced a ‘Guns and Knives’ educational DVD and are working towards a supporting educational pack. Our support to schools will also include the use of mobile metal detection arches and focussed ‘anti-weapon’ school assemblies to reinforce the message to young people that the carrying of weapons will not be tolerated. This will reassure all students, staff and parents that schools in Kent and Medway are safe places to learn and develop.

However, if individuals decide to carry weapons, my officers will vigorously target them to ensure that Kent remains a safe place to live, work and visit.

I would like to thank the entire backroom team, the players and you the fans for your part in combating knife crime. I wish you every success for the season and a swift return to the Premier League.