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AN EVENING security squad will be on board to reassure Metro customers from October after operator Nexus appointed a special unit (today). Nexus selected one of the UK's leading manned security contractors to provide evening protection for its train operations system wide. The contract was awarded to Gateshead based, St James Security, which ranks among the top manned security specialists in the country. St James Security already provides a range of services to Nexus, including ticket inspectors and security at its depot and offices, and won the contract after a competitive bidding and tender process. Its security squad will tackle the perception that Metro is an intimidating place at night, especially for women and target those people who would make life a misery for staff and customers. Andy Bairstow, Nexus Commercial Director, explained how St James won the prestigious contract. He said: "Incidents of serious crime on Metro are rare but low level anti-social behaviour and disorder from a hardcore minority is something our customers tell us they find intimidating. "This security squad will tackle that hardcore minority and add confidence to our customers as they make their journeys with us. "In winning the contract St James Security understood the problems we face and showed a commitment to working together to improve the system for our customers and staff." The direct duties of the 15 person squad, which goes on patrol in October, will be to tackle; Begging
Nuisance customers
Foul language
Criminal damage
Smoking
Alcohol
Fare evasion
Aggressive behaviour
Hotspots of bad behaviour The squad will be backed by Metro security officers and CCTV support (giving them the ability to rapidly respond to incidents). They will also work closely with the Metro Police Unit. Their normal hours will be from 6pm until close of service.
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