Bulwell Hall Estate was stunned by the stabbing of 25-year-old Mark Beard on Caldon Green earlier this month.

So the police convened an open meeting at the Healthy Living Centre on Lawton Drive to try and put minds at rest and discuss ways of moving the estate forward.

The meeting was also used to introduce residents to the new beat manager for Bulwell Hall, Pc Lloyd Goucher and his community police team, Gregg Davies and Liam Searle, who are to work on the estate.

Bulwell's area commander, Insp Chris Davies, said that the most important thing was that a man had been arrested and charged with murder.

Insp Davies told residents now was the chance to improve life on Bulwell Hall and work towards making it a safer area to live.

The main concern of residents was whether there will be an increased police-presence on the streets of the estate.

They also thought it vital that steps were taken to ensure that young people on the estate have things to do so they don't turn to crime.

Robin Robinson, chairman of the estate's tenants and residents association, said a connection between police and the community was vital.

Insp Davies said: "The reality is we cannot have a police presence 24/7. But we are constantly reviewing our shift patterns to ensure that the team are here at the best time.

"There will be an increase in police presence and activity on the streets.

"I really appreciate the support given to police in Bulwell by the community who I hope will continue to support us."

Mr Searle added: "If you want an officer to come round for a cup of tea and a chat, then ask them.

"It is time we got control of the streets and with residents' help, we can do that."

The meeting also heard from two teenagers who explained that there was nothing for young people to do in the area and that it was easy for them to turn to crime and trouble-making if they were bored.

A woman added: "These lads have taken the time to come to the meeting. It shows that the kids want an improvement. It shows that it is not just adults who want it."

Mr Davies replied: "Working with youngsters is what I am all about. In the past, I have organised things like football tournaments between officers and youngsters and that is the sort of thing I am looking to do on Bulwell Hall. But we need youngsters to approach us and communicate with us, not hurl abuse at us.

"It has taken a tragic crime like this but now every section of the community has the chance to improve life on Bulwell Hall."

Pascal Simpson (25), of Western Boulevard, Nottingham, has appeared in court charged with the murder of Mr Beard.