STOTTESDON & SIDBURY PARISH WATCH
Supported by
The Threat
Crime in the Parish is extremely low compared to national and more urban statistics but even one crime is too many. The main problem is theft and our widely spread, often isolated population could appear attractive to those outside with evil intent.
Recognising the Threat
OPPORTUNISTIC
Casual visitors spotting an opportunity or posing as walkers, lost drivers, etc.
ORGANISED
Targeted crime as a result of intelligence gathered by delivery drivers, unsolicited tradesmen, scrap/antique dealers, door/door salesmen, agency workers, etc.
The Answer
Noticeably different Watch signs
Local publicity
Window stickers
An alert, vigilant attitude by everyone
Clear communication chain using our zone system
Close liaison with the Police
Detailed vehicle/driver identification
Awareness of neighbours' movements/habits
Greater care within the community
Method
Alerted interest in strange vehicles:
What do the driver/occupants look like?
What make/type/colour and (vitally) the registration number?
Any distinctive advertising or markings?
Speak to others to complete details/track vehicle/obtain more information, if necessary.
If suspicious inform co-ordinator or zone contact as soon as possible.
Alerted interest in strangers:
What are they doing and why are they there?
Do you think they are genuine tourists, walkers, cyclists, etc?
Are they acting suspiciously?
Speak to them - wrong doers WILL leave quickly - genuine visitors can be made welcome.
Alerted interest in your neighbours' movements:
Are they away?
Is anything different from normal?
Alerted interest in speeding vehicles, fly-tipping, poaching, anti-social behaviour or other illegal activities.
Alerted interest in the safety of your property:
Advise neighbours when you will be away.
Are you expecting tradesmen to call while you are away?
Is your garage/shed locked?
Did you lock your house on leaving?
Be Alert - Record Report
YOUR CONTACTS ARE THERE FOR YOU
Help us all to make this a completely crime free Parish
Do not hesitate to call them if you are suspicious about anything
If your first contact is unavailable try another number
Overall Parish Co-ordinator
Brian Hamilton-Russell, Hardwickforge
718577
Central Zone
Ralph Howes, Woodhouse Farm
718675
South Zone
Clive & Clair Gittens, Heath Farm
718732
West/North/East Zone
Roger & Mandy Williams, The Highlands
718249
If you want a window sticker or suggest where you might like another sign erected please ring the co-ordinator.
If a crime has taken place or is in progress please immediately make a note of all descriptive details and the time of day.
DO NOT TAKE RISKS - PHONE THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY
101 for non emergency calls
OR IF A GENUINE EMERGENCY DIAL 999
You may be asked for your postcode to assist the police in locating the incident as soon as convenient inform the co-ordinator.