POLICE coverage of Kingsmead is causing confusion for councillors.

Davenham Parish Council part funds a PCSO for the village but is worried that he does not cover the Kingsmead ward.

Chairman Clr Arthur Wood voiced the parish council's concerns.

He said: "We've heard he's no longer looking after the Kingsmead area but we agreed with police that he would look after Davenham parish and Moulton parish and if there are any problems with that they should come back to us."

Kingsmead, part of Davenham, is officially policed by the Northwich Neighbourhood Policing Unit (NPU) while Davenham and Moulton fall within the boundaries of Winsford NPU.

Davenham and Moulton's PCSO Richard Forster is based with Winsford NPU.

Clr John Curran said residents were dismayed with the extent of a PCSOs powers and felt they were not much more than a civilian in a uniform.

But Clr Wood said he was impressed with PCSO Forster's role so far.

"They are a first line of contact and can bring in reinforcements better than an individual," he said "I do think he's doing very well and has been quite effective on a number of things but we do need feedback and need to know if there have been any changes.

"We're paying quite a lot on behalf of the community for this and want to make sure it's working."

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said PSCO Forster's duties had been reviewed and in the light of the size and spread of his patrolling area it was decided Leftwich PC Kelly Warburton and the corresponding PCSO would serve the residents better.

A spokesman for Cheshire Police said: "All three officers are in regular contact with each other to share intelligence and any concerns raised by residents or councillors.

"We can assure residents of Kingsmead and members of Davenham Parish Council that this decision was taken to provide all areas with robust community policing and we will continue to work with all involved to provide the best possible level of service."