Barker Street
Neighbourhood
Watch

number plate theft

Dear Coordinator,

Over recent years there has been an increase in the theft of number plates from vehicles. In some circumstances number plates are an appealing item to steal as they can be used on different vehicles to disguise their true identity. These vehicles can then become involved in criminal offences such as petrol drive offs, speeding offences, congestion charge offences and parking offences or may be stolen. Dealing with the outcome of such offences can often be distressing and time consuming for the genuine owners whilst trying to sort out the situation.

There were three number plate thefts overnight between Thursday 17th July & Friday 18th July in the Ruskin Road & Carlisle Street areas of Crewe. However, this is the type of offence that could occur in any area.

There are solutions available for anyone who is concerned about this:

The most expensive but effective option is to purchase an anti-theft number plate which meets the DVLA criteria for theft resistant plates which means that security experts are unable to remove these plates within a 3 minute period and when they eventually succeed the plates shatter and are totally unusable. One of the initial companies to offer these plates is www.secureplate.com but as always I suggest that anyone interested in purchasing anti theft plates shops around to find the best company/deal to suit them via a website search engine, by speaking to a local garage/trusted number plate dealer or by taking friend and family recommendations.

The less expensive option is to purchase anti theft number plate screws. These are screws that can be fitted to your number plate that can only be removed using a specially configured tool. This method is not quite as effective as the anti theft number plate but it is more affordable and offers protection by minimising the risk of your number plate being stolen by opportunist thieves, number plates as with car badges can also often be stolen as trophy items. These screws are available at a wide variety of outlets both online or in garages/car equipment stores so if you are interested please shop around for the best deal.

If your number plate is stolen it is important not to dismiss the theft as mindless vandalism. The DVLA recommend that number plate theft be reported to the police. Even if you do not intend to make an insurance claim for your number plate, owners who log number plate thefts with the police not only make it easier to disprove their involvement in cloned car offences but help the police to try and locate the cars using your plates via ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) vehicles.

Regards

Home Watch Desk

pedlars

Dear Coordinators,

I have had several Coordinators from various areas from Crewe & Nantwich contact me with regard to people trying to sell goods at their door who are claiming to be ex-prisoners supported by a local authority. This appears to be happening in rural communities in the main but I thought as I have had several enquiries it was worth letting all coordinators know the details as it is an unusual one as in some cases people could be acting within the boundaries of the law.

Upon receiving the first enquiry about this a short while ago I spoke with a colleague who explained that it is possible to sell goods at the door if you have been issued with a genuine pedlar certificate. However, persons selling goods would have to have a pedlar certificate that could be produced for the area that they are trying to sell items so in our case for Crewe & Nantwich (not Stoke or Nottingham as some Coordinators have reported).

I am also led to believe that on occasions people will pretend to be 'a pedlar' as a distraction burglary technique and that historically many such individuals have claimed to be from Nottingham in particular and produced a photocopy of a certificate as ID.

In all the enquiries that have been made to me it is impossible to confirm from the details noted if the individuals have been trying to cause a distraction or if they were pedlar's off their patch but it is something to be aware of and to pass on to members. However, as always, I would suggest that irrespective of whether the individuals are genuine pedlar's, I would air on the side of caution and continue to follow the advice that it is inadvisable to ever buy any goods or services at the door. By following this rule you can guarantee that you will not be caught out. Please make members aware of this issue.

If anyone would like some 'No Cold Calling' window stickers, we have recently had some produced which contain the Cheshire Constabulary & Home Watch logo's, please let me know via email (please for ease include your contact address) and I will forward some to you.

Kind Regards

Home Watch Desk

newsletter 27.5.08


Dear Coordinator,

Please find below the latest news stories for the Crewe & Nantwich area to keep you as a Home Watch Coordinator updated with what has been going on within the local area.

Regards

Home Watch Desk


Crewe & Nantwich News April-May 2008

Striking Out Crime and Disorder Organized crime, robbery, burglary, drugs, car crime and violence are being targeted by a new Cheshire Police Strikeout campaign. Police Officers will carry out a number of high profile pro active operations, often involving partner agencies. The Cheshire Police Eastern Area Commander, Chief Superintendent John Armstrong said, “We have been having a lot of success, for instance burglary in the Area has been reduced by nearly fifty per cent since the beginning of the year, but we can improve things even further by stepping up pro-active policing. Strikeout is designed to disrupt crime and disorder through the use of surveillance, informants and search warrants. Our best support is information from the public. We want to know about people who are living the good life through criminal exploits and the misery of others.”

Smoking Out Illegal Cigarettes Nearly 50,000 contraband and counterfeit cigarettes were confiscated and destroyed in a joint operation in Crewe by Cheshire Police, HM Revenue and Customs and Cheshire County Council Trading Standards. Teams of officers called at pubs, shops, houses and flats. They also seized a van being used for trading. Sergeant Andy Collier, said they uncovered evidence of illegal cigarettes being sold over the bar at some pubs.

Eight Years for Jewellery Robbers Police say eight-year prison terms imposed on two men who robbed a Crewe jewellery store reflect the seriousness of the crime. The men, carrying hammers and a crowbar, threatened staff at the shop in Nantwich Road and stole jewellery and watches. Detective Constable Gareth Wynne said, “It was a long and painstaking investigation but a successful and important one. These men have always denied being involved and DNA evidence obtained from clothing played a crucial part in convicting them. This was a highly organized robbery, carried out with a significant threat of violence.”

Joint Effort Targets Speeders Police Officers in Nantwich have stepped up their efforts to curb speeding drivers, with the help of local councils. Nantwich Town Council, and the parish councils at Bunbury, Willaston and Audlem have financed a speed gun which local Police Officers will use on a regular basis. Inspector Bob Hassall said, “Enforcement speed guns tend to be used on roads with a history of really serious collisions. This will give us the chance to target roads which are not quite so bad, but where there is serious concern. This is not like Speedwatch where drivers get a warning letter. This will mean fines and points on their licences.”

Volunteers Check Driving Wrenbury is the latest village to launch a Community Speedwatch team. Nine villagers have completed their training and will monitor the speed of traffic at various points. Police Community Support Officer Sharon Jones said, “People might think of Wrenbury as a quiet backwater but there are some concerns. There is a village school which means speeding is an obvious danger. The other problem is that as soon as drivers leave the central part of the village they put their foot down, feeling they are in open country. In fact they are likely to come face to face with someone walking along the road, which has no footpath.”

Knife Robbery Sentence A man who threatened the owner of a Crewe pet shop with a carving knife during a robbery was sent to prison for three years. Police Constable Dave Oldfield, from Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit Investigation Team said, “This was a very nasty incident. We obviously take a very serious view of crime which includes violence or threats of violence, especially when a weapon is involved.”

Investigation Into Money Lending Police said an operation in the West End of Crewe to investigate allegations of illegal money lending and the sale of counterfeit goods went “very smoothly”. Police Officers were joined by staff from the Illegal Money Lending Team, Cheshire County Council Trading Standards, HM Revenue and Customs and Wulvern Housing. One man was arrested and bailed pending further inquiries.

Pooling Information Twenty Five agencies have now signed Information Sharing Protocols with Cheshire Police Eastern Area. Inspector Kate Woods, from the Area Partnership Development Unit said, “Exchanging information is vital when it comes to tackling problems such as anti-social behaviour, alcohol related disorder and low-level crime- the issues which affect people’s everyday lives.”

Reducing Road Casualties A four –month summer road safety campaign is intended to reduce the number of young drivers being killed and injured on roads in East Cheshire. It includes attitude training for some inexperienced drivers who are stopped by police, as well as enforcement measures targeting Red Routes-roads with high numbers of collisions. The initiative is being carried out by Police Officers and colleagues from other agencies. It is funded by the Cheshire Safer Roads Partnership.

“Let’s Do It” Police Community Support Officers will deliver road safety training to more than 500 children in Crewe and Nantwich during the summer. The “Let’s Walk” and “Let’s Bike” projects have been organized by Neighbourhood Action, assisted by Cheshire Police, schools, community groups and local businesses. Halfords have also given support.

Twice as Safe Some bikes on a Crewe housing estate have had a double safety check. Police Community Support Officer Dave Jinks, who runs sessions to mark bikes on the Sherborne Estate to make them less attractive to thieves, was joined by bike maintenance expert Dave Southern. Dave Southern made sure the bikes were roadworthy and carried out minor repairs. Dave Jinks said, “Most of the owners were youngsters so the bikes are an important part of their lives. They were delighted, and we will be doing this again.

This communication is intended for the addressee(s) only.
Please notify the sender if received in error. Internet email
is not to be treated as a secure means of communication.
Cheshire Constabulary monitors all Internet and email activity
and requires it is used for official communications only. Thank
you for your co-operation.

recent burglary in the blankney

Dear Coordinator,

Please be aware of the following Burglary that occurred within the Blankney area of the ward:

Between 08:00 & 18:00 on Tuesday 22/04/2008 an unknown offender approached the rear of a property and using a spade from the garden forced a pane of glass from the patio doors. An inner pane was also removed and a tidy search was made of all rooms and various items were removed prior to the offenders making good their escape in an unknown direction.

If anyone witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the vicinity during these period please notify the Home Watch Desk via 01244 614332 or hayley.goodwin@cheshire.pnn.police.uk

Please remind members that they must lock all tools away whilst not in use. As the warmer weather approaches many people carry out chores around the house and tidy up their gardens. As such tools are often left around the garden, even if you are only popping out briefly lock any tools away as they can be used to aid a break in into your property or a neighbours property.

Regards

Home Watch Desk

newsletter april 2008


Dear Coordinators,

Please find attached the news for the Crewe & Nantwich area for March 2008, this is issued for interest of Coordinators to keep them up to date with what has been going on.

Please be aware of an incident that has been brought to my attention from an Audlem Coordinator. He has reported that a neighbour received a recorded voicemail on their phone claiming to be from a Government scheme that could assist anyone with £5000 or more of debt in getting a good deal to consolidate their debts. It then prompted the listener to make key choices (ie press '5' for more information). It is unadvisable to follow up on any such schemes as it is likely that the caller will be put through to a premium rate number. Equally, as with all items never buy or follow up goods or services from people ringing you or knocking at your door. As with all services if you require the service find your own company to assist you either via family/friend recommendations or contact several companies yourself to compare prices, ask for references and try to chose ones that have official accreditations.

Regards

Home Watch Desk


CREWE & NANTWICH NEWS – MAR 08

Warning to Damage Cheats People in Crewe who damage their homes then try to blame vandals are being warned, “You could face court action and eviction!” Police Officers and Wulvern Housing Officials have teamed up to investigate a growing number of “repeat” claims at some addresses. Sergeant Christian Watkins, from Crewe Community Action Team, said, “We are often told broken windows and smashed doors were caused by ‘a group of hoodies’. Where this happens several times we are talking to neighbours. If we discover a house is being targeted by hooligans we will find out who is responsible and deal with them. If we establish it is false claim and the tenants are just trying to dodge repair bills, people must realise they may be charged with wasting police time, or fraud, and the housing association may evict them.”

No Blues for Jazz Fans A tougher line on preventing violence and disorder at the Nantwich Jazz, Blues and Music festival brought results. There were just eleven reports of incidents this year, compared with 36 in 2007. The new security measures included banning orders on more than thirty known troublemakers and a wristband system for people going into pubs to hear the music.

Polishing up Policing Polish lessons are on the schedule for some Police Officers, Police Community Support Officers and Police Staff from Crewe and Nantwich. Ten people are taking part in a pilot course in their own time to learn everyday phrases and police-related questions like “Do you have driving documents?”. They are also learning the likely answers! Sergeant Miles Dignam, from the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Training and Development Unit said, ”Crewe now has a large Polish community and we think this will help deal with a lot of situations, although we will still need an interpreter for more complex issues.”

Beating Bogus Callers Police have asked people in Crewe and Nantwich to continue assisting the battle against bogus callers. Recent months have brought several successes in Cheshire Police Eastern Area, including long sentences for three men who carried out “bogus official” burglaries in Crewe and Nantwich, and for a Crewe burglar who posed as a milkman. Detective Inspector Nigel Groom, in charge of the Area Burglary Unit said, “Other cases are in the pipeline, but teams of criminals are still out there preying on the elderly and the vulnerable. Prevention is the best answer. We ask everyone to keep an eye on elderly neighbours and friends.”

Oscar for “Exemplary” Team Members of a Police team who restored peace to a village received the Mayor’s Oscar for “Exemplary Community Policing” in Crewe and Nantwich. Sergeant Dave Kibblewhite, P.Cs Stuart Lloyd, Amy Fletcher and Nicola Berry and Anti Social Behaviour Coordinator Laura Woodrow-Hirst secured an Anti-Social Behaviour Order against a man who had frightened and tormented villagers at Aston juxta Mondrum over several years. Police Community Support Officer Dave Jinks was awarded the first – ever Oscar for PCSO of the year, sponsored by Wulvern Housing. P.C. Kath Thomas from the Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit Investigation Team received the Oscar for Student Police Officer of the Year. Sergeant Colette Swansbury received the Special Constable of the Year Oscar and the Crewe and Nantwich section of the Specials was highly commended in the Oscar nominations from SCOOT.

Attempted Murder Charges A man from Nantwich who faces two charges of attempted murder will appear at Chester Crown Court at the end of April. The 35 year old man was charged following a shooting incident at the Lion and Bell pub in Congleton last December.

Goodbye to the Tie Police Officers, Police Community Support Officers and Specials in Crewe and Nantwich now have a 21st Century look. Most officers have been equipped with a new uniform featuring a black T shirt and lightweight trousers with “cargo” pockets, a windstopper fleece and a shorter high visibility jacket than previously. The tie has disappeared and there are new designs for the cap and helmet badges. An officer said, “It is far more practical than the old uniform and a lot more comfortable with body armour. It should stay smart no matter what we have to do.”

new year newsletter 15.1.08


Dear Coordinator,

Hope you had a Merry Xmas & New Year!

At the start of the new year, I have received a couple of emails regarding potential email scams and bogus caller scams.

The first, from a Home Watch Coordinator, indicates that she received an email claiming to be from Yorkshire Building Society claiming that they had temporarily suspended her online account due to unauthorised access and asking her to confirm details via a link attached to the email. Interestingly, this coordinator is not actually a member of YBS and she was still included in this email. Unfortunately, there are several versions of such scams where individuals try to gain personal and financial details by posing as genuine institutions. The pages are often expertly designed and look like the genuine article when you click on the included links and work along the lines that they often include information that may cause the consumer to panic such as accounts being suspended etc. Never click on the attached links, if you need to check account details etc, open the site yourself from your browser toolbar and log in using the proper channels. If it relates to financial information that causes you concern, consider ringing the companies Customer Service department to speak to an advisor in person as opposed to believing the email. Never give out your password or personal financial details and if you are suspicious of an email remember you are under no obligation to respond to it.

Secondly, a colleague has informed me of a recent incident when an elderly lady was contacted by a lady claiming to be from North West Water, reporting a fault with a water main and asking her to check her taps. The ladies neighbour became suspicious as North West Water no longer operate under that name, operating instead under United Utilities. She rang United Utilities and they confirmed that there had been no issues in the area and that there was no record of the lady being contacted. Please make members aware of this and urge them to challenge people claiming to be from official agencies. Ensure that you check the ID of any officials carefully and even consider making them wait outside whilst you find a telephone number and contact their company to check that someone should be calling in your area. Alternatively, if you are vulnerable and concerned about being alone, ask the person to make an appointment in writing so you can ask someone (such as a neighbour of family member) to be present with you when they call. Finally, remember that you are under no obligation to allow anyone into your home. Genuine companies will not take offence if you check them out thoroughly and will in fact encourage it. Please take particular care to inform any vulnerable members as they can often become a target for such scams.

If anyone would like information about how to deal with Bogus Callers or Consumer Advice for the Elderley please let me know and I will provide leaflets for your members.

Finally, please find attached below Crewe & Nantwich News for December 2007.

Regards

Home Watch Desk

Crewe & Nantwich News – December 2007

Man Admits Town Centre Robberies A man was arrested and charged with an attempted robbery at a building a society office in the centre of Crewe and with robbing a woman in Crewe on the same day. He later appeared in court and admitted the offences. The man, aged 25,will be sentenced in February.

Travelling Criminals Targeted Cheshire Police Officers joined colleagues from Merseyside and North Wales Police Forces in a month-long campaign against professional criminals who work across the county boundaries. The operation targeted a wide range of offenders, including teams who carry out cash-in-transit robberies, lorry hi-jackers, burglars and drug dealers. Several arrests were made and officers disrupted the movements of other criminals. Inspector Debbie Dodd said, “We are sending a clear message to professional criminals across the entire area that we do not tolerate this type of activity.”

Bogus Officials Jailed A team of criminals who carried out four “bogus official” burglaries in Crewe and Nantwich and many more in towns across the Midlands are to spend long terms in prison. The four men were jailed for periods ranging from ten and half years to five years and four months. Detective Inspector Nigel Groom, who leads the Cheshire Police Eastern Area burglary unit said, “These men preyed on the elderly and vulnerable and showed no compassion for their victims. The sentences reflect what the courts, the Police and the public feel about this type of crime.”

Murder Trial Concluding Verdicts are expected early in January in the case of a man from Crewe and four teenagers who are accused of murdering Garry Newlove in Warrington. The trial, at Chester, was adjourned on December 20th after five weeks of evidence. It resumed on January 2nd and the members of the jury are considering their verdicts.

Robbery Charge A man was charged with robbery after an incident at a service station in Bradfield road, Crewe. Police Officers began a pursuit after a car was reported stolen from the service station. They stopped the vehicle twenty miles away at Mere, in Knutsford and arrested the driver.

SmartWater on the Bottle Cans and bottles of alcohol on sale at some off licences in Nantwich are being marked with SmartWater in an attempt to track down adults who buy drink for under-age teenagers. If a quantity of drinks seized from teenagers is traced back to the same source it will identify a problem. Police Officers will then set up an operation to catch the offending adults. Licensees have welcomed the idea. Inspector Bob Hassall, from Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said, “This is applying a technique usually connected with serious crime to an anti social behaviour issue. We are doing a lot to tackle the problem of under-age binge drinking and would like to do even more. Finding long term solutions to this issue takes time and resources and we are having some success in our approach, but we need to invest more. We are asking the public to support us in our efforts by logging on to www.supportcheshirepolice.com”

Just in Time for Christmas A “Christmas present” of free time switches was snapped up by people in Crewe and Nantwich. Six hundred and fifty time switches, funded by the Crewe and Nantwich Community Safety Partnership, were on offer from Crewe and Nantwich Police Stations so that people could improve their home security. Mark Cotton, a Crime Reduction Adviser said, “Making your house look occupied when it is not can deter a burglar who is looking for a target which is vulnerable, but simple precautions like making sure doors are locked and keeping an eye open for anyone behaving suspiciously shouldn’t be neglected.”

“Just the Ticket” for Hospital Danger Police have cracked down on drivers who street-park outside the main entrances to Leighton Hospital in Crewe, causing traffic problems which put patients in danger. Police Community Support Officer Sarah Allibone says ambulances on “blue light” emergency calls have been delayed because of the problems resulting from cars parked in Smithy lane. She added, “Presumably the drivers are trying to avoid paying a fee on the hospital car parks, but their action is causing really serious problems. Some of the vehicles are displaying disabled badges, but that does not give the drivers the right to cause an obstruction. We are issuing fixed penalty notices to everyone who is thoughtless enough to park here.”
PCSO a Real “Sport” Youngsters at Shavington received a big Christmas present from their local Police Community Support Officer, Dave Bufton. He presented the village youth club with a thousand pounds worth of indoor sports equipment including kit for football, hockey, cricket, volleyball, badminton basketball and ice-free curling. The gift was funded from a Public Service Agreement which made money available for organizations helping to prevent anti-social behaviour. Dave said, “The youth club does a tremendous job providing teenagers with a meeting place and focal point. It is important to the village as a whole, and to my work here.”

This communication is intended for the addressee(s) only.
Please notify the sender if received in error. Internet email
is not to be treated as a secure means of communication.
Cheshire Constabulary monitors all Internet and email activity
and requires it is used for official communications only. Thank
you for your co-operation.

safety and security at CHRISTMAS!

Out & About – Shopping for Gifts
Although Christmas is a happy time for many of us, be mindful that criminals also enjoy the opportunities that the festive season can often present to them. Please be mindful of this advice over the festive period:

Whilst out shopping for Christmas and during the January sales, consider carefully where you are parking with regards to lighting and security. Is the area well lit and would you feel safe returning to your vehicle alone if it is in a quiet area? Is there any CCTV coverage in the area to offer extra protection? Wherever possible, try not to return to your vehicle mid trip to leave presents in your boot and if you need to be mindful of anyone suspicious who may be loitering or watching you place the presents in your boot. A boot full of presents or sale items would make a nice gift for an opportunist thief.

New Gadgets
For those of us who receive new gadgets such as satellite navigation systems, new phones and Bluetooth able items such as laptops take extra care when trying out your new toys! Ensure that you wipe away the sucker ring from the windscreen after using your Satellite Navigation System as this signals to a would be thief that there has been a system in the vehicle. Remember to switch of your Bluetooth when not in use as even if laptops and phones are locked in the boot where you believe them to be secure, criminals can use Bluetooth to indicate to them there is a Bluetooth device in their vicinity.

At Home
Although it is a fair bet that most households will have Christmas presents within them, try not to advertise the position of your gifts. A Christmas Tree with presents under it is a festive sight, however it may also offer an incentive for passers by on the look out for easily accessible presents to steal, so try not to leave presents in places where they are easy to view from the window.

Once you have opened your gifts make a note of any serial numbers and store in a safe place and also property mark your items in case of future thefts. It is always worth taking a photograph (alongside a ruler to give an idea of size) and recording a description and approximate value of any precious items as a precaution both for identification and insurance purposes if stolen.

If you are attending Christmas & New Year parties ensure that you make your house looked occupied whilst out by leaving lights on. If you are out on several occasions try to vary the lights you leave on so there is not an obvious pattern when you absent from your property. Consider investing in a timer switch from a DIY store so that some lights will come on automatically if you are back after dark.

Personal Safety
Whilst out and about socialising try to remain vigilant and keep an eye on your personal possessions such as phones, handbags and wallets. Take control of your own possessions, it is often easy to leave your bag on the floor or your phone on the table presuming that someone else, such as a friend, will stay with them - wherever possible try to keep your personal possessions with you because you will definitely look after them. Don’t carry your wallet around in your rear trouser pocket where it easily accessible for someone to dip into your pocket unnoticed whilst in a busy environment.

more rogue traders! 14.8.07

Last week, two males one 30-45 yrs white male Irish accent, fair/greying hair, clean shaven and one younger male were in the Maw Green area of Crewe cutting down trees. The older male carried an ID card with the word 'Ellwood' on it. They targeted a vulnerable elderly couple, one of whom was blind, telling them not to worry about the cost. They then proceeded to charge the couple £950 for the work which was paid to them in cash. The traders were driving a white pick up truck and the consumer believes that it read CDY 825 on the van.

Please be aware the this pair could still be operating in the Crewe & Nantwich area. Warn all members, especially older and more vulnerable residents, about this specific incident but also remind them that they should never agree for goods or services to be undertaken from people calling at the door. If people require work carrying out it is always advisable to find your own company possibly via friends and family recommendations and ensure that you get quotes from several different companies to ensure the price is comparable.

If anyone spots or is approached by these individuals please decline their services and contact Trading Standards on 08454 04 05 06.

If anyone is concerned about other traders that they believe may be rogue traders please contact Trading Standards with as many details as possible. If anyone has been a victim of a Rogue Trader please contact the police on 0845 458 0000 to report the matter asap.

residents parking july 2007

This might be of interest to anyone who is involved in residents parking schemes.It's a direct copy from the Telegraph of 14.7.07



'We have heard talk that the local council might introduce a parking scheme in our street. Do we have any say over it?'

Under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, local authorities have power to introduce parking schemes. This includes the right to introduce so-called “controlled parking zones” where residents can be charged to park. In deciding whether to introduce a scheme, the local authority must take into account the need to maintain the free movement of traffic, the need for maintaining reasonable access to premises and the availability of off-street parking.

'And the residents?'

No one has been clamouring for a parking scheme and we suspect the council is motivated by the money it will raise. In a case decided in 1995 (where residents challenged the implementation of a parking scheme), the court made it clear that it was not legitimate for the local authority to introduce a scheme to raise revenue and that there must be effective and fair consultation.

This means that consultation must take place while the proposal is still at a formative stage; those consulted must be provided with information which is accurate and sufficient to enable them to make a meaningful response; they must be given adequate time to do so; there must be adequate time for their responses to be considered; the consulting party must consider the responses with a receptive mind and in a conscientious manner when reaching its decision.

'How do we keep track of the consultation process?'

The consultation procedures vary from place to place but full information should be obtainable on your local authority’s website. It is always possible for details of the scheme to be varied, and invariably charges will be increased from time to time. Theoretically it would be possible for an authority to revoke a parking scheme, but I cannot imagine that this ever happens. Accordingly, the time to object – if you wish to do so – is at the consultation stage when the introduction of such a scheme is in contemplation. Conversely, if there is no scheme and the residents would like one, they should lobby their local councillor to raise the issue.

'What about other planning issues to do with our street?'

Different statutory provisions apply to other matters which may concern residents, such as speed limits and lighting. If you have any concerns in these areas, the local authority may be able to assist but central government bodies (such as the Highways Agency) are likely to be involved.

seasonal crime alert june 2007

Dear Coordinators,

Due to the time of year there appears to be a trend emerging regarding thefts from vehicles, outbuildings and dwellings. Several incidents are being reported where people are gaining entry via insecure or open windows, doors and outbuildings.

Dwellings
Remove opportunities for would be burglars who are always on the look out for easy access points. If you go out shut all the windows and secure the doors, even if you are only nipping out. At night take the time to check that windows and doors are secure, keys are taken out of doors and car keys are stored securely out of reach. Pay special attention to smaller and seemingly inaccessible windows such as toilets and skylights as we often forget to secure these if they have been open. During the day, if you are busy outside or upstairs, lock the doors and windows that you do not have sight of to ensure that nobody can sneak in and out of your property. Ensure that you property mark items using a recommended system, record serial numbers and take photographs of items for insurance purposes and advertise that you have property marked using provided window stickers.

Sheds/Garages/Outbuildings
Again, it is easy to forget to lock these outbuildings, particularly during warmer weather, when they are in use more frequently. As with your home take steps to double check that these are secure at night and when you go out. If your outbuilding contains a number of valuable items consider installing a shed alarm that will alert you if someone breaks in. Don't leave tools out and about as these can be used to break into your shed or home.

Cars
Never leave your car unlocked or the windows open when you are absent from the vehicle. During this weather it can be common for people to have items removed from the vehicle when someone leans in through an open window. Never leave any items of value or perceived value in your vehicle. Items such as clothing, rucksacks, satellite navigation systems, cd players, money, handbags, designer sunglasses, trainers, laptops and other electrical items are all appealing to passing thieves. Even if it is an inexpensive item in a plastic bag etc, remove it from your vehicle/from sight as a thief is not going to know what is in the bag until they have broken in. Pay particular attention at places such as petrol station forecourts where it is tempting to jump out your car, leaving it unlocked/windows open and expensive items in the vehicle. Remember it only takes a second for someone to grab an item if your attention is diverted for a second. Always lock your car and remove items from sight at these locations.

Make sure you enjoy the summer without becoming a victim of crime!

Regards

Home Watch Desk

homewatch news 11.6.07


Dear Coordinators,

On Saturday 16th June 2007 from 10am until 2pm there is an event in Crewe Town Square (near Marks & Spencers) as part of National Bike Week. Amongst other things, people will be able to get a free bike safety check and my colleague and I will be property marking and registering cycles for free. If you have a bicycle or any scheme members or family members have a bicycle and would like to participate bring your bicycle down to the town centre on Saturday.

Also, please find attached this months news for the Crewe & Nantwich area below

Regards

Home Watch Desk


CREWE & NANTWICH NEWS – MAY 2007


ACTION
Action Against Pickpockets A spate of thefts by pickpockets in Crewe town centre was stemmed when Police officers stepped up uniformed and plain clothes patrols and put up warning notices. Acting Inspector Paul Broadhurst said, “In most cases purses were taken from bags which women were carrying over their shoulders. Keeping your bag zipped up and carrying it where you can see it is a big deterrent to thieves.”

Polish Links More than 100 Police Officers and Police Staff from Crewe, Nantwich and Congleton met volunteers from the Polish community in a “getting to know you” event at Crewe Police Station. Sergeant Brian Hughes, the Cheshire Police Eastern Area diversity officer said, “The number of Polish people in the area has grown rapidly. We need to know them better and to help them understand that there are things we can do to help them.”

“Specials” Target Seat Belts Twenty one people were fined for not wearing seat belts when nine Special Constables staged an “Impact Day” on the streets of Crewe. Chief Inspector Mark Cotton, the head of Specials in Cheshire Police Eastern Area said, “We plan to organize regular days like this, tackling various issues. Next time it might be drivers using mobile phones or town-centre shoplifters.”

CRIME
Another Drug Dealer Jailed Police Officers said a four year prison sentence imposed on a woman arrested for drug dealing in Crewe underlined the firm line taken by the courts over drug offences. The 36 years old woman had been found guilty of possessing crack cocaine with intent to supply and of supplying amphetamines. The previous month her partner was given five years in prison for drug dealing.

Cannabis Factory Sentence A 21 years old man, who set up a cannabis factory at his home in Crewe, was sent to prison for eight months. P.C. Mike Rushton, from Crewe Community Action Team said the sentence was a reminder that cannabis was still illegal and drug dealing will not be tolerated.

Arrest After Fire A man was arrested after a fire in the centre of Nantwich badly damaged a shed and caravan and then spread to a house. He was charged with arson with intent to endanger life, and remanded in custody.

Sixteen Year Minimum A nineteen years old man from Crewe is to serve at least sixteen years in prison for the murder of a man in Winsford. Chester Crown Court had been told the victim, who was 18, was stabbed, after a fight which started as “play”. The judge imposed a life sentence with a recommendation of a sixteen year minimum term.

Murder Charge A man is to appear at Chester Crown Court in July charged with the murder of his mother in Crewe. The man, aged 22, was arrested on April 29th. His mother had been found dead at her home two days earlier.

LOOKING AHEAD
“Lock It” Warning As the summer begins Police Officers have issued a “lock it or lose it” warning to cyclists in Crewe and Nantwich. Sergeant Adam Butt said, “The theft of bikes always increases during the warmer weather and the number of reports of missing cycles has already risen. The best way to protect your bike is to invest a few pounds in a good lock- and be sure to use it.”

“Don’t Be Distracted” Police are also warning about “distraction burglaries” in Crewe and Nantwich during the summer months. Detective Inspector Nigel Groom said, “Teams of criminals who use the technique of keeping someone talking while another of the group slips into the house and searches for money are always more active in the summer. Sometime they pose as bogus officials, but on other occasions they will just begin a conversation with someone who may be in the garden. Friends and relatives of elderly and vulnerable people should keep an eye open for them, and report anyone behaving suspiciously.”

New Look Forums Cheshire Police Authority is encouraging more people to attend Police Forums. Most forums will now have a theme and include practical demonstrations of police work such as roadside drug testing, or home security. Anna Collins, the Engagement manager with the Authority said, “We want people to come with their concerns and highlight where we are failing so we can take steps to improve the service.” Details of Police Forums are available on the Police Authority website, cheshirepa.police.uk

precautions against cold callers 6.6.07

I have received several reports from home watch members recently relating to various incidents of cold calling (detailed below).

Can I ask that all members reiterate the message to scheme members that we advise that goods and services should never be purchased at the door or via the telephone. This includes alarm systems, any house maintenance and also requests from charities to provide financial assistance.

Please follow this simple advice:

Remember it is Your House and these Individuals are Calling Uninvited! You are under no obligation to speak to anyone who cold calls at your property. If vulnerable residents are concerned about opening the door to cold callers then they do not need to do so.
Never Be Pressurised - Many cold callers are persuasive and may try to pressure sell items or to arrange appointments to attend at your address at a later date. Remember this is a service you probably even don't need (or you would have looked yourself) and if things look too good to be true then they usually are. Companies will often try to make an appointment to attend at a later date. By making an appointment you are in essence inviting the company into your home and this can raise further difficulties - always say no!
Research Your Own Companies - When You Need Them! Don't fall foul of impulse buying over the door or phone. As and when you require work carrying out on your property find your own company to complete the work. Take recommendations from friends and family, get several quotes from different companies and choose a company that is registered with a trade organisation.
Report Suspected Incidents Straight Away. If you believe you or a family member has been a victim of rogue traders or are unhappy in any way please contact the police immediately or Trading Standards on 08454 04 05 06

If anyone would like any further literature for their scheme members about how to deal with bogus callers, please contact the Home Watch Desk or David Dickinson and it can be arranged.

more about parking 1.6.07

just to keep you in the picture, this is the latest correspondence i have had with rob welch of cheshire county council.
we need patience!!


last year we had some correspondence with you, paul burns, mrs dunwoody and mr taylor about residents parking in nantwich, and i'm wondering if any progress has been made towards a solution of the problem which is noticeably worse now than it was, partly due to the loss of so many parking spaces in the civic centre park.
when does decriminalisation come in?
are we any nearer to some preliminary work?
can we, as residents, be of any help?
have you any suggestions as to how we can speed up the solution?
as you can imagine, we dont want the issue to be left at the bottom of the pile till we are all too old to drive!
anything you can help us with will be much appreciated
david dickinson



Mr Dickinson

Unfortunately, the introduction of Decriminalisation has slipped and is now not likely to be brought in until October ; progress on any process for on street parking permits will not proceed until after that date and it is unlikely that any will be introduced for at least a year from that date. The County Council is currently producing a Countywide Strategy for parking which includes policy for on street controls and the introduction of residents parking zones. It is likely that this will be approved in the Autumn. Once that is in place there will be an defined process for dealing with requests and prioritising. As you can appreciate, the introduction of residents on street parking requires not only a policy but a mechanism for consultation, issuing of permits and enforcement. It is possibly that only one permit per household would be issued (may be two depending on location) and the charges for the permits must enable the process to be self financing. Permits would be renewable annually. Of course, this is my view based upon experience elsewhere and is dependent on the County Council's policy due later this year.

Rob Welch
Area Traffic Engineer (Crewe and Nantwich)
Cheshire County Council


as a postscript, mr welch points out that any change in the council organisation (one or two maxi councils) could drastically alter the schedule.
which way??!!
perhaps a vote for 'no change' could be the right one.

pick pocketing 21.5.07

Whilst shopping in Crewe & Nantwich town centre, please be aware that there has recently been a spate of handbag dippings – with a view to stealing purses and cash primarily. Please warn Home Watch members to be extra vigilant with their purses and wallets and try to ensure that you are not carrying large amounts of cash around. In particular, men should avoid carrying their wallets in their rear trouser pockets, opting for a more secure zipped pocket or inside pocket instead. Women should take particular care to ensure that their handbags are securely fastened when not in use. It is worth considering extra crime prevention methods to alert you if someone tries to take your purse or wallet. An inexpensive yet effective option is the purchase of a small bell, such as a cat bell, which can be secured around your purse or wallet. These are often supplied sold on elasticised collars or can be secured to an elastic band to offer an audible alert should someone have hold of your purse or wallet.

Bogus callers

Dear Coordinators,

Please be aware and vigilant regarding the following individuals who were involved in a bogus caller crime in nearby Holmes Chapel

At approx 2pm on Tuesday 10th April 2007 two men claiming to be from the Water Board gained entry to a property in Holmes Chapel. The resident of the property is an elderly lady who lives alone. The individuals made off with £25 and were described as follows:

Male 1 - In his 20's, tall with dark hair and a Welsh accent, wearing a blue jumper and was called 'Steve' by Male 2

Male 2 - In his 20's, slightly shorter than Male 1, shaved head and also wearing a blue jumper.

Although most people who call at your home are often genuine, it is important to remember that sometimes someone may turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home. Please bear in mind the following suggestions when dealing with unknown callers, particularly for vulnerable people;

LOCK, STOP, CHAIN, CHECK!

LOCK your front and back doors, even when you are home

STOP before you answer the door and consider if you are expecting anyone. Make sure the back door is locked with the key removed. Look through a spy hole or window before answering the door.

CHAIN - ensure that you place the chain on to answer the door if you have one and leave it on even when talking to the person on the doorstep

CHECK - Even if they have a prearranged appointment check their ID card thoroughly. Close the door while you do this and if you are still unsure, look up a phone number for their company in the phone book and ting to verify their story and identify them. Never use a phone number from the ID card or that they provide as this may be false.

Further Advice;

Bogus callers may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, utility companies or other such companies. They may turn up as workmen and try to trick you into paying for unnecessary work. It may be someone claiming to have lost something in your garden asking to come in and look for it.

Never be pressured into allowing entry to your property or buying goods from the door. Genuine officials will not mind that you take time to validate their identity or making an official appointment to attend at your house at another, more convenient time. Never buy goods or services from people cold calling at your home. If you do require work carrying out on your property take advice from trusted friends and family members who may be able to suggest a company they have used and/or ring up and get several quotes from different companies before choosing one.

Most importantly remember that if you have any doubts, KEEP THEM OUT!

If you think a bogus caller has called on you, report it to the police immediately.

Regards

Home Watch Desk

Crewe & Nantwich News March 2007




Crewe & Nantwich News March 2007


ACTION
Crack House Closed A flat in Coronation Crescent, Crewe, has been sealed up after Police and partner agencies obtained a “Crack House Closure Order”. The order followed evidence that groups of addicts were using it for drug-taking. It was the first time this type of action has been taken in Crewe. Police Officers stressed that it was part of the on-going campaign against drug abuse and dealing, and similar moves will be made against any property that is turned into a drug den.

Joining Up Police Officers carried out joint patrols with Military Police in Nantwich after several confrontations between soldiers and groups of local men. Sergeant Dave Kibblewhite, from the Nantwich Neighbourhood Policing Unit said, “We moved to tackle the problem before it developed into anything too serious and it now seems to be under control. The patrols got the message across.”

Sporting Welcome P.C. Liz Fletcher, the Community Action Team Officer for Waldron Ward, in Crewe has welcomed proposals to introduce sports coaching sessions for young people in the ward. She said, “Sometimes we have to deal with vandalism and we have seized drink from groups of young people. They say they hang around the streets because there is nothing to do, so sport coaching seems a very good idea.”

CRIME
Dealers Sentenced Two men who were arrested after Police Officers filmed them dealing heroin within sight of a Crewe school have both received substantial prison sentences. One was jailed for three and a half years; the other for two years and three months. Inspector Sue Fraser said, “Drug dealing is a high priority for action by us and dealers need to understand that.”

Drugs Search A 21 years old woman was arrested after Police Officers from Nantwich carried out drug searches at two houses in the area. The woman was given bail while substances recovered from the properties are analysed.

Robber’s Trick Fails A man from Crewe who unsuccessfully tried to carry out two robberies and then presented fake references and a fake job offer when he appeared at Chester Crown Court was jailed for two and a half years. Judge Nicholas Woodward told him the false documents had been convincing and he had considered suspending the prison sentence, but when they proved to be untrue there was no alternative to prison.

Fraudster Jailed A former financial adviser based in South Cheshire who defrauded clients of nearly a million pounds has been sent to prison for five years. His conviction followed a Cheshire Police investigation which lasted more than two years.

Bogus Caller Warning Police Officers issued a warning about “bogus caller” crimes after three incidents at the homes of elderly women near Nantwich town centre. In another incident in the town a man claiming to be a plumber was refused admission to a house and went away.

LOOKING AHEAD
ArcAngel Returns ArcAngel, the Cheshire Police campaign to tackle alcohol related crime and disorder is being implemented over the Easter holiday in Crewe and Nantwich. High visibility Police patrolling will be carried out, especially in areas with a history of disorder problems. On the approach to the holiday period Police and some off licences have teamed up to deter under-age teenagers from buying drinks or hanging about in groups outside the premises. Shops taking part are displaying stickers with the ArcAngel logo.

Right Number Parish notice boards across Cheshire are being provided with posters advising people what telephone numbers to ring when they want to contact the Police. The posters, provided by Cheshire Police Authority, point out that the 999 system should be reserved for emergencies and the Force information line 0845 458 0000 or the local Community Action Team number are the correct channels for other calls. The posters also provide information about contacting the Police by email or calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

bogus callers

“Bogus Official” Warning at Nantwich
Police Officers at Nantwich are warning elderly people to keep strangers out of their homes, after a series of “bogus official” crimes.

In the past three weeks men claiming to be from a water company have stolen cash from the homes of three elderly women near Nantwich town centre.

In a fourth incident a man called at the home of an elderly man claiming to be a plumber who needed to come in. He was refused entry and went away.

Detective Sergeant Andy McGillan said, “That last case shows how to deal with this type of thing. If you challenge these people by refusing to let them in, they will simply go away.

“It is very unlikely indeed that anyone from a water company or any other public utility will call at your door without any prior arrangement and ask you to run a tap or flush the toilet because there is some problem. That is usually a subterfuge to keep you occupied and to create some noise while another member of the gang comes into your home and searches for money.

“It doesn’t matter if the callers appear to be wearing some type of uniform or are carrying some form of identification cards, refuse to let them in until you are absolutely satisfied they are who they say they are.
“You can make a call to the water company or to the Cheshire Police Information Line on 0845 458 0000 to check. If the callers are genuine they won’t mind waiting. If they are not, they will go away. The elderly gentleman who refused to open the door had the right idea.”

“We would also ask relatives, friends and neighbours of elderly people to make them aware this is going on at the moment and to keep an eye open for them. If you see any callers you think are suspicious in you neighbourhood, let us know. This is a particularly nasty type of offence. It targets the elderly and the vulnerable and the thefts can cause a great deal of stress as well as financial loss.

“Courts usually impose long prison sentences on criminals who are involved in ‘bogus caller’ incidents and that surely reflects the way everyone feels about this type of crime.”

more on yellow pages! 12.3.07

hi hayley
re the yellow pages.
as far as i can seen not a single copy was handed over in person. when i went out for the papers at 7.45 all copies in barker st and love lane were leaning against doorways. certainly the delivery people didnt ring our bell!
at 5 pm therre are still copies outside some doors. its a bit late for them to do anything now, but they might do better next year, though they wont be popular if they wake eveyone up before 7 which is when i heard them chatting outside!!
good luck!
david

Hi David,
Thank you for the below information, it is much appreciated.
Unfortunately, it is sad to say that I have received similar reports from other coordinators in the area and witnessed a similar trend in my own neighbourhood. In all cases people have stated that some residents were at home and no attempt was made to contact them or the yellow pages were left in totally inappropriate places, with no effort made to conceal them.
Like yourself, I am far from happy with this and think it is unacceptable as it is an invitation to crime that could have been avoided had the distributors followed the training that I was assured they were given.
I have just spoken to the Logistics Support Manager at the company who have organised the distribution and have voiced my concerns over this issue. She agrees that this is not acceptable and is also very unhappy that people have ignored the training that was given to them. She has asked me to send details of all areas where I have received reports of poor service, which I am about to do. This information is to be passed to the appropriate area managers and the deliveries traced back to an individual distributor, who will then be dealt with regarding this matter.

Regards
Hayley Goodwin
Watch Coordinator
Crewe & Nantwich Borough
Cheshire Constabulary
01244 614332

'yellow pages' deliveries march 2007

Dear Coordinators,

Yellow Pages Deliveries

I have been notified that the Yellow Pages 2007 edition is due to be delivered in the Crewe & Nantwich area for the next few weeks.

The deliveries will be made by private individuals all of whom have received training on their delivery method with particular attention paid to the avoidance of any invitation to crime, such as books on show in the street. The distributors have been told that if they cannot hand over the book or leave it with a neighbour, they must place it out of sight and post a card through the letter-box to tell householders where their directory has been left.

Prize Draws Information

A coordinator contacted me recently stating that they had received a letter from the Unclaimed Prize Register stating that they had won a prize. They ignored the letter and shortly afterwards received a second letter saying that they had to ring to claim their prize before a certain date. Telephone calls are £1.50 per minute and will be a maximum of 6 minutes long. This information is in the small print.

The coordinator was concerned this was a scam, however many such companies, although charging unscrupulous prices, are not operating outside the boundaries of the law. They work along the lines that people will be curious enough to ring to see what prize they have won, enticing people with a number of so called star prizes. However, the majority of prizes awarded are often minor items or deals with further conditions on them and not worth the £9 that it has cost you to contact them.

When dealing with such letters and any similar schemes, it is always worth remembering that if something appears too good to be true then it usually is and that it is rare that you get something for nothing. Never give out personal or financial details to these companies, you are under no obligation to respond.

I contacted Trading Standards to see if they were aware of this particular company, which they were not but agreed with the advice given above. They also offered the following pointers;

How can you win a prize when you have not entered a competition?

If it was a genuine prize opportunity from an established and respected operator why would they need to use a premium rate phone line?

Some companies ask for bank account details of people who have allegedly won a prize, why would they need this? And even if they claim to require postage for a prize etc why could you not just send a cheque?

Other companies ask for an administration fee to release your prize fund. Why can this not be deducted from your so called winnings?

Please make your members aware of the above information.

If anyone has any concerns or further queries regarding the yellow pages deliveries please contact the Home Watch desk (this email or 01244 614332) and I will make further enquiries with the company on your behalf. Equally, if anyone receives junk mail that they would like looking into contact myself of trading standards directly. However, if in doubt - throw it out, ensuring that any personal detail are shredded.

Regards

Home Watch Desk

homewach newsletter march 2007

Crewe & Nantwich News - Feb 2007

ACTION
Mini Moto Warning Three thousand leaflets are to be distributed across Crewe and Nantwich spelling out the regulations on the use of mini-motos. They are part of a campaign to make sure that parents understand their obligations when they buy a mini-moto for their child. Inspector Paul Jennings said, “The only place a boy or girl can ride these machines is on private land which is not used by other people, and with the landowner’s consent. They should also be supervised by an adult.” The leaflets are being financed by Crewe and Nantwich Safer Communities Partnership and Wulvern Housing Association.

Police “Surgery” at School Nine hundred pupils at a school in Crewe are being offered the chance of regular person-to-person talks with local Police Officers. Once a month, P.C. Dan Loveridge and his colleague, Police Community Support Officer Dave Bufton take over a room at Shavington High School. Pupils can drop in to discuss in private any issues which they think might benefit from Police help or guidance.

Rescue Teams Face Hooligan Danger Police Officers condemned “brainless idiots” in Crewe and Nantwich who interfere with safety cones and lamps set up at the scene of crashes. In one recent night-time incident flashing blue lights were moved and scattered while rescue services worked to free a driver from a crashed vehicle.

Shock on the Mat A Community Action Team Officer tackling problems with teenage drinking groups in the Wells Green area of Crewe says some parents are genuinely horrified when they discover their sons or daughters are involved. Pc Dan Sambrook is now sending letters to the parents of children he sees regularly among the groups.

Snowed Under Police patrols were alarmed by the number of motorists in Crewe and Nantwich who drove “blind” because they failed to clear their windscreens during a few days of frost and snow. One officer said, “It’s very dangerous, especially for pedestrians. If a driver has no peripheral vision and someone steps out in front of the vehicle there is every chance of a collision.” Several drivers were given £30 fixed penalty tickets for driving without a full view ahead.

CRIME
Prison for Race Attack A 21 years old man who carried out a racially aggravated attack on a pizza delivery man in Crewe has been sent to prison for two years. Detective Constable Mark Cook, who investigated the case, described the assault as “unprovoked and savage”. Cheshire Police said they treat any racially aggravated violence extremely seriously. Although the initial motive for the attack appeared to have been robbery, it had caused a considerable amount of fear among ethnic minority people in Crewe.

Six Arrested in Police Op Six men were arrested during a Police operation to prevent the theft of high-value cars from driveways near the A500 in Nantwich and part of Crewe. All six were bailed pending further investigations.

“Benchmark” Sentence for Disorder Police Officers say a prison sentence imposed on a 19 year old man from Crewe sends a clear message to people responsible for disorder. He was jailed for two years for affray and breaches of an Anti Social Behaviour Order and for another 12 months, to run consecutively, for indecent assault. P.C. Tony Condon said the sentence “showed the benchmark” for this type of offence.

Praise for “Have a Go” Arrests Police have praised the actions of three men who helped arrest suspected robbers in the centre of Crewe. Shane Greer and Jamie Watson tried to stop two men they saw running from the Derbyshire Building Society office. Ian Watson then successfully rugby tackled both of the men. Detective Inspector Paul Done said, “These men went well beyond what we would expect members of the public to do. Their quick thinking was crucial.”

LOOKING AHEAD
Guilty Plea to Murder A 20 years old man from Crewe who stabbed another young man to death in Winsford will be sentenced in April. He pleaded guilty to a charge of murder when he appeared at Chester Crown Court and the judge adjourned the case for reports.

No Phone Amnesty Drivers in Crewe and Nantwich who continue to use hand-held mobile phones have been warned there is no “amnesty” from the new penalties during March. Police officers say anyone seen breaking the regulations faces three penalty points on his or her license and a £60 fine. When the ban on mobiles came in three years ago most people stopped during the first month were given warnings, but Police Officers point out that this time only the penalties have changed. The law remains the same.

homewatch newsletter february 2007

CREWE & NANTWICH NEWS – JAN 2007


ACTION
Spotlight on Car Seizures A Mercedes car seized by Police because the driver had no insurance is being exhibited outside Crewe Police Station. The vehicle highlights the fact that 450 cars, vans and motorbikes are now being seized by Officers in Cheshire Police Eastern Area every month. Superintendent Mick Garrihy said, “Seizure is an effective way of enforcing road regulations and tackling crime. 85 per cent of the drivers involved have criminal records or are known to be involved in crime. Denying them the road disrupts their activities.”

“Thank You” to Fred
Cheshire Police said a public “thank you” to 76 year old Fred Fox who went to the aid of an Officer making an arrest in Crewe. PC Nick Moore was struggling with a man on the ground and was being threatened by two of his friends when Mr Fox held them off with his walking stick. Mr Fox was presented with a “Bravery and Good Citizen’s Award” by the Chief Constable, Peter Fahy. Nick Moore said, “Mr Fox did more than could ever be asked of him.”

“Thank You”
to Salvation Army Sergeant Mike Whittaker, from the Cheshire Police Eastern Area Training Unit, presented a £300 cheque to Crewe Salvation Army Captain John Stark. The money, from the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme, was a “thank you” for the talks Salvation Army officers give to Police training courses. It went to the Salvation Army parcels fund.

“Tuck ‘em In”
Police Officers are telling drivers to fold in their door mirrors when they park. The advice follows an incident in Crewe when a vandal smashed door mirrors off a row of cars. P.C. Paul Wright, from Crewe Community Action Team said, “We made an arrest in this case but the simple precaution of turning your door mirrors in can remove the temptation to commit this brainless type of damage.”

Special Change
Mark Cotton has been appointed as Chief Inspector to lead the 74 Special Constables in Cheshire Police Eastern Area. Mark joined the Specials two years ago, and builds the volunteer work around his regular job as a Crime Reduction Adviser based in Crewe and Nantwich. He says he is looking forward to the challenge, and intends to combine the administrative tasks with his regular weekend patrols as a Special in Crewe.

CRIME
“Serious Danger”
Removed Police Officers say an indeterminate prison sentence passed on a 26 year old man has removed a serious danger from the Crewe area. At Chester Crown Court the man admitted starting eleven fires in the town during a two-year period. The sentence means he will not be released until he is no longer believed to present a risk to the public. P.C. Dominic Orlando from Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit Investigation Team said. “Bringing him to justice involved a long and complex inquiry which included checking the records of five different mobile phones he used to make 999 calls. We worked closely with the Fire Service and were eventually able to collect enough evidence to identify and convict him.”

Challenge
Met Inspector Sue Fraser, in charge of Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit says the arrest and conviction of the arsonist was the latest in a list of serious crimes which have been detected by the Crewe Investigation team and the Community Action Team. “In the final three months of last year 19 criminals arrested by Officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Unit were given prison sentences totalling more than 26 years,” she said. During those three months anti social behaviour incidents were almost halved and criminal damage was down by a similar amount on last year’s figures. “Crewe has been a challenge in terms of the volume of crime, but we are now seeing the success of putting into place effective measures and work practices.”

Town Centre Crime Down
Police Officers in Crewe and Nantwich say an on-going campaign against theft is making inroads into town centre crime. Shoplifting and vehicle crime were both down over the Christmas period and officers says the improvement is being maintained. “With efficient policing, CCTV and the SCOOT shop watch system a lot of thieves are getting the message that the centres of Crewe and Nantwich are bad news for them,” said Detective Sergeant Pete Sweeney.

Police Op. Brings Arrests
Six men were arrested during a week-long Police operation against burglaries and other night-time crime on housing estates near the A500 in Nantwich. Four men from Birkenhead were detained after a car was stopped and two other men were arrested when their car was stopped two days later. All six have been released on Police bail pending further inquiries.

Warnings Heeded
Police say an incident at Nantwich demonstrates that people are taking notice of warnings about bogus callers. An elderly woman refused to let a man claiming to be from the Water Company into her house, and the man went away. He was believed to be part of a team of burglars who targeted elderly and vulnerable people in the area.

LOOKING AHEAD
Race Attack Plea A 21 year old man will be sentenced in February for an offence of racially aggravated assault causing actual bodily harm in Timbrell Avenue, Crewe last August. A judge at Knutsford Crown Court adjourned the case for reports after the man pleaded guilty to the charge and to taking a car without consent.

more about parking 8.2.07

we dont seem to be making much progress with parkng, but more information is coming through the whole time, albeit in dribs and drabs!
the latest is the following from paul burns of crewe council:
"It is for County to instigate the consultation necessary as a preliminary to planning any residents parking schemes- where they involve on street parking. They have consistently indicated to me that they don’t want to do this before DPE (decriminalised parking) is in, up and running.
They are buying a back office system to run fine processing, which has a module ready to manage permit schemes- so at least some preparation is being made.
However if they did start public consulting, people might get confused and think that such a scheme might be available at the same time as DPE is due to come in- ie August- whereas it will be some time after that before CCC will be able to do it. I think it would be difficult anyway to have a valid survey and to evaluate that survey without knowing what the actual impact of DPE will be."
talking to your own county councillors might keep the pressure on. look at the link from this web page to the county council and then 'my councillor' at the bottom of the page.
by the way, there was a helpful remark from one county councillor to the effect that 'you shouldnt buy a house in nantwich if it hasnt got parking'.
what do we do with all the lovely 17th,18th and 19th century houses?!!

car parking in nantwich

here's a bit more news about the parking saga!

apparently the 'decriminalisation' of parking, that is to say the move of on-street parking responsibility from police to local council will take place on august 13th.
we need to keep up the pressure to minimise the delay before residents parking becomes an option.
note that it is still an option for residents of particular localities.

if you are interested in helping our campaign, please contact davidcdickinson@hotmail.com

Residents car parking

There was a useful open meeting with the Nantwich Town Council on Monday in Brookfield Hall. About 70 Nantwich residents were there with some 8 councillors and Supt. Chris Brierley.
The only item on the agenda was the problem of redident's parking. It was explained that nothing concrete could be done until illegal 'on street parking'was decriminalised so that the wardens responsible for 'off street parking' could take over. This could be in place in May 2007.
Once this has happened, and subject to residents in a particular area agreeing by majority vote, certain zones could be designated as available for use by residents only and offenders could be given on the spot fines.
The details of how the scheme would be administered and what the cost to residents would be (there seemed little doubt that there would be a cost!) could not be worked out before the decriminalisation was in force, though it wasn't really explained why this was couldn't be done earlier, even if only in draft form.
The Council promised that we, the residents, would be kept informed, probably through the local papers and radio, though I hope that I may be able to update this report as well.
I think that it could be helpful to contact your local Councillor and ask to be kept in the picture, though perhaps not too often!
(There is a link to Crewe Council through 'links' above.)