Tag: police

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Neighbourly Smiles

Neighbours are asked to smile as part of social experiment in UK communities

Jay Crawford - took part in the smile experiment
Jay Crawford, one of the residents of Lingard Road, Manchester, who took part in a social experiment designed to strengthen residents’ links with their neighbours.

The Essex Police Neighbourhood Watch Liaison regularly issues reports and advice which are reported once a month on this site in the monthly crime update – this item we have received seems too novel and interesting to leave to the month-end compilation – enjoy and,don’t forget, SMILE:-

Do you smile at the people next door, pat their cats and dogs, take out their bins or know their names? If so, you are very much in a minority, as British people have been revealed as a reserved lot who don’t know their neighbours.

According to new research, one in 10 UK residents can’t name a single one of their neighbours, while less than a fifth of people know the names of even their immediate neighbours. But they would like to: almost two-thirds (65%) of people say their neighbourhood would be a “stronger” and safer place if people were encouraged to get to know each other better.

In a survey and a follow-up social experiment carried out to mark the 50th anniversary of the Neighbourhood Watch network, people were questioned about their connection with their local community. Less than a quarter of those surveyed said they felt a sense of belonging, but there was a clear sense of craving for neighbourly contact.

Neighbourhood Watch carried out the study with price comparison website comparethemarket.com.  Then, taking one ordinary street, a social anthropologist was drafted in to work with a selected number of residents to get them to let go of their British inhibitions and reach out to the people they lived alongside.

In the month-long experiment, the participants – who all lived on suburban Lingard Road in Manchester – were asked to keep a diary of how they got on. Five households had strict instructions to smile at people in the street and offer help where they could, and to try to strike up conversations. Although several reported “strange looks” and some initial reserve, by the end of the four weeks all the Lingard Road participants reported success.

I’ve really seen a difference. People I’ve never met before have been a bit more sociable and said hello on several occasions. The study has been useful and really proven that we are a nice little street with a small community,

… said Jay Crawford, who had lived in the area for 24 years without plucking up the courage to talk to anyone, but now is delighted to be running a bin rota with his new friendly neighbours.

Social anthropologist Kate Fox, director at the Social Issues Research Centre in Oxford, said the experiment tapped in to a very real desire to be part of a community.

“The activity confirms my own findings that the English or British reserve stereotype is misleading,”

she said.

We are not reserved in the sense of introverted or misanthropic or unsociable: we are social animals just like all other humans, and have the same need for a sense of community and belonging. We are just a bit more socially awkward than other nations – and have stricter unwritten rules about privacy, not talking to strangers, and that kind of thing.

So we need more props and facilitators – pubs, clubs, pets, sports, games, weather-talk, alcohol, internet – to break the ice and get us interacting with each other.

Fox believes only the smallest “nudge” is needed to get people building a better neighbourhood.

The experiment shows even very small gestures, saying hello, can have a significant positive effect on a neighbourhood.

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Shame on who?

Gate can no longer be secured
Gate can no longer be secured

A Shameful Side To Our Village

Background to Tennis Courts

Six years ago The Parish Council assumed responsibility for the tennis court area of the Orpen Field.  A key aim is to promote the use of this facility and to make it more readily available to village residents for tennis and other sports.  To this end membership of the West Bergholt Sports Club has attracted about twenty families, and casual use can be booked at the Co-op at a fair price.  The Council has not sought to make any profit from the facility but simply to set aside enough each year to maintain it in good condition and replace the surface when it becomes necessary.

Despite security access abused and damage caused

For security and safety reasons the management committee introduced a coded locking system on the main gate.  This has generally worked well but sadly some individuals have abused it and gained entry, misusing the area, repeatedly damaging nets and equipment which have needed replacement at a cost of over £500.  The attraction to young people for football was recognised and so a goal area was provided lower down the field and this was well used and appreciated.

A sad day – police involved

It is sad to report that despite efforts to maintain security, unauthorised entry has continued culminating in an act of vandalism on the lock which has completely ruined it and will cost over £200 to replace.  To make matters worse a temporary padlock with a chain securing the gate was stolen on Saturday 9th August and was captured on CCTV.  Those involved are in the process of being identified.

Polite request

In the meantime the court area remains open.  A notice asks that no football is played and the nets are not interfered with.  Also children under ten are not allowed on the courts unsupervised.  Parents are asked to ensure that their children respect this.  The management committee will meet shortly and make recommendations to the Council about the future of the facility.

Any information on the incidents described above or suggestions for future means of access and the booking of the courts will be welcomed by the Council.

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Get Sheducated

Garden shed

Is your garden and shed secure?

The garden and its perimeter

Your garden should be your first line of defence against burglars. If someone can get into your back garden easily without attracting attention, it gives him/her more time to steal from you.

  • Keep hedges and fences low at the front of the house so an intruder has nowhere to hide.
  • Gravel on paths and driveways will alert you to someone approaching.
  • Make sure your fences and gates are in good repair.  Trellis fixed to the top of your garden fence and carefully-placed prickly plants will provide extra protection from intruders.
  • If there is a gate at the side of your house which leads to the back garden, it should be as close to the front of your house as possible.
  • Keep this gate securely locked. A simple bolt is not enough – use a good padlock.
  • Install security lighting. Low energy dusk to dawn lighting is environmentally friendly, cheap to run and better for home security than passive infra-red activated lighting.
  • Don’t make a burglar’s life easier by leaving tools around which can be used to force entry. Always lock them away securely after use and consider chaining them together with a padlock attached to a hasp and staple.
  • Likewise, don’t leave ladders lying around as these can be used by a burglar to reach other parts of your house. Ladders should be chained and padlocked to a strong post or wall.
  • Try to avoid leaving things like dustbins lying around they can also be used as a climbing aid.
  • Remote-movement detectors can protect costly garden furniture and valuable ornaments such as statues or stone planters. However, these are only suitable for heavy objects not affected by wind or casual vibration.  Alternatively, you can anchor these items to the ground using ground anchors designed for this purpose – even valuable plants can be protected in this way.
  • Hanging baskets are also worth protecting. Bending the bracket and/or hook so the basket cannot be removed may be enough to deter thieves, although locking brackets are also available for this purpose.

Sheds, garages and outbuildings

Garden sheds are a popular target with burglars as valuable items are often stored in them. Power tools, lawnmowers, cycles, golf clubs, etc., are all attractive to
thieves and very expensive to replace.
Garden shed

  • Has your shed survived the winter without any damage?  If not, don’t delay – fix it today!
  • Shed doors are notoriously easy to break into, so strengthen the door and frame if you can. Outside door hinges should be secured with coach bolts or
    non-return screws.  Use strong pad-bars and close shackle padlocks.
  • Up-and-over garage doors can be secured by putting padlocks through the inside runners or by fitting padlocks with a hasp and staple on either side of the
    door. Five-lever mortise locks are the best thing to use on normal solid doors.
  • Are the windows secure? Does the glass need replacing?  You could use perspex or polycarbonate sheet as a more secure alternative, as long as it is securely fixed.  Use a window lock on any windows which can be opened, along with a strong grille or heavy wire mesh panel. Consider using net curtains so people can’t see inside.
  • Battery operated alarms may act as a deterrent. If you have a house alarm, you could have it upgraded to include your shed or garage. If the garage is an
    integral part of your house, make sure the alarm conforms to BS 4737.

Thief in gardenYour property

You also need to protect everything you keep in your shed and garage.

  • Does your insurance cover the shed and garage and all the equipment stored in them?
  • Is everything postcoded so you could identify it if it was stolen?
  • Items can be postcoded by a variety of methods (etching, branding, paint stencilling, etc.) Making them easy to identify will make it more difficult for a thief to dispose of them, so they are less likely to be stolen in the first place.
  • Keep a record of serial numbers.
  • Photograph valuable items and keep the photos somewhere safe.
  • Make everything secure inside the shed, so even if someone did break in they wouldn’t be able to walk away with all your valuable items.
  • Chain cycles, mowers, ladders and tools to a strong anchor point, such as metal rings fixed in concrete to the floor, and use a close shackle padlock.
  • Sheds are not really designed for safe storage, so it might be better to keep a strong lockable box or cage inside your shed. Better still, store valuable items in a more secure place.
  • Ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your shed as well as the house and do the same for them in return.
  • If your shed is screened from view, cut down some foliage so you’re not providing cover for a thief.
  • When you’ve made your garden, shed or outbuildings more secure, remember to lock things away every time. It only takes a minute to pick something up and walk off, so don’t be tempted to leave everything outside while you go inside for a cup of tea. And NEVER leave cycles unlocked.

Natural protection

One of the best ways to keep thieves out of your back garden is to use nature’s own defence mechanisms. A barrier of prickly hedge may be all the protection you
need around your property. Here are some suggestions for plants to use. You can also ask for advice at your local garden centre.

  • BARBERRY (Berberis)
  • BLACKTHORN (Prunus Spinosa)
  • BUCKTHORN (Rhamnus)
  • FIRETHORN (Pyracantha)
  • GORSE (Ulex Europaeus)
  • HAWTHORN (Crataegus Monogyna)
  • HEDGING ROSE (Rosa Rugosa)
  • HOLLY (Ilex)
  • MAHONIA JAPONICA
  • ORNAMENTAL BRAMBLES (Rubus)
  • QUINCE (Chaenomeles)
  • ROSES – eg climbing and rambling roses, plus Rosa Pteracantha
  • SEA BUCKTHORN (Hippaphae Rhamnoides)

Thief gaining entryNeighbourhood Watch

And finally . . . are you a member of Neighbourhood Watch? If not, would you like to join a scheme, or perhaps even start one yourself?

For further information and advice please contact the crime reduction officer or problem solving officer at your local police station on 01268 532212.

Crimestoppers

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March Crime Report

Essex Police - Protecting & Serving Essex - February Crime reportMarch Crime Incidents

March started quietly with the local Policing team only having one theft to deal with well away from the village at Fiddlers Folly but it wasn’t to last.

Theft of Pedal Cycle from Maltings Park Road

The cycle was left unattended on the victims driveway at 7:10pm on 15th March, and was missing when they returned to it 15 minutes later.  The information release below offers advice on this subject.

Criminal Damage on the B1508

At 2pm on 20th March the cables to the Public Telephone were cut by person or persons unknown.

Criminal Damage to a vehicle on Nayland Road

Between 5:30 & 8:00pm on 31st March an unknown suspect caused damage to the victims car by throwing, or using, an object to hit the top of the rear window thereby smashing the glass.

Theft of Keys in Spring Lane

Between 8:15 & 8:45pm on 31st March an unknown suspect removed the victim’s keys from an unattended handbag.

Information Releases

Somewhat fitness related this month with advice to protect bicycles, runners and walkers below .  Essex Police also issued a release on the Cancer Scam already reported on this site earlier in the month.

Bicycle Crime Prevention Advice

Now that spring is upon us it is more likely that you will want to get your cycle out, all the more reason t pay heed to the following advice: When buying a bike, budget for security.  You will need one or more locks and somewhere secure at home to keep your bike. Make sure you don’t buy a stolen bike. By buying a stolen bike you are helping to support the illegal trade in bikes – the next stolen bike to be bought could be yours!  By avoiding doing so you help make it less likely your bike will be stolen in the future.  If you buy a bike from a legitimate seller, it is likely to be more reliable and you’ll probably be covered if anything does go wrong with it. Do what you can to check it is from a legitimate outlet and that they are sure it is not stolen. If it seems suspiciously cheap, ask yourself why. You may be able to check the ownership of a bike you intend to purchase by searching a property register such as Immobilise, or asking for proof of purchase or ownership. Take out adequate insurance, either by extending your home contents insurance or through a separate policy. Cycling organisations and bike shops may offer specialist cover. Do this at the time of purchasing the bike otherwise you may not get around to it. Record and register your bike. Take a clear colour photograph of your bike and make a written record of its description, including any unique features, so that you can report it accurately if it is stolen; this will help prove it is yours if it is recovered by the police.

  • Register your bicycle model, make and frame number with a third party. (The frame number is often underneath the bottom bracket where the pedals attach, or on the frame under the seat.) Again this will help anyone who subsequently finds (or even buys) it to check whether it is stolen – and return it to you. Some registration schemes allow you to register individual bike parts that have serial numbers. Contact your local police station for further advice.
  • If you add an additional security mark or tag to your bike, this will again make it easier to identify as yours. Sometimes your local police will provide this service for free. The mark may be obvious, which should help deter thieves; or hidden, such as ultraviolet; or there may be a combination of both. Clearly visible marks should be securely applied. A hidden mark or electronic tag is less likely to be identified and removed by thieves.

Basic security

It may seem as though there are lots of things to think about when locking your bike, but once you get into the habit you will be able to lock your bike within seconds and it will be well worth the trouble.

At home

More than half of all bicycle thefts take place from an owner’s property. So as well as taking care of your bike when you are out and about, you should think about how safe it is at home.  Some things you can do are:

  • Keep your bike in a secure shed or garage and get into the habit of keeping the door locked. If you keep your bike in a shed, make sure you get a robust lock for the door.
  • Secure it to an immovable object, or consider installing a floor or wall-mounted anchor lock for extra security.
  • If you are going to keep your bike in a communal area, is there anything you can lock it to?
  • Keep it out of public view.
  • For additional protection, keep your bike locked wherever you leave it at home.
Out and about
  • Avoid leaving your bike in dimly lit or isolated places. Leave your bike where a potential thief can be easily seen.
  • Always lock your bicycle, even if you are just leaving it for a couple of minutes. Think about using two different types of lock – see advice on ‘Locks’ below.

Security

  • Lock your bike to an immovable object – where possible use a proper bike rack, ground anchor or street furniture that offers multiple locking points and will stop your bike falling and causing an obstruction. Bikes locked to lampposts, railings or anything else not designed for this purpose are more vulnerable to theft, so only use these if you really have to. Remember that thieves can remove drainpipes and lift bikes off signposts. If provision is inadequate, bring this to the attention of the relevant local authority or property owner.
  • Lock both wheels and the frame of your bike to the bike stand or other immovable object.
  • Secure removable parts. Lock both wheels and the frame together. Take with you smaller components and accessories that can be removed without tools (for example, lights, pumps, computers, panniers and quick-release saddles).  Fit secure skewers to wheels, headsets and seat posts.  Ask a bike shop for specialist advice.
  • Make the bike and lock hard to manoeuvre when parked.  Keep the gap between bike and lock small – the smaller the gap, the harder it is to insert levers or other tools.  Keep the lock or chain away from the ground; never leave them lying on the pavement – a lock can be sledge-hammered.  Locks can also be picked, so face the lock to the ground (but not resting on it) so it can’t easily be turned upwards for picking easily when it’s resting on the ground.
Locks

Invest in good quality locks. Hardened steel D-shaped locks and sturdy chain locks are recommended. Be prepared to spend 10% of the value of your bike on locks.  It is always best to use two locks. Go for two different types of lock, for example a strong D lock and a sturdy chain lock. This means that a thief will need different tools to break each lock, making theft less likely.  There are many different products on the market and price is not necessarily a reliable indicator of quality and resistance to attack by thieves. Also important is how long the product resisted attack.  There is a grading system used by Sold Secure to assess locks, based on how long they withstand attack. The Gold Standard locks resist longest; Silver and Bronze resist proportionately less well. They may be lighter and cheaper than Gold Standard locks, and still offer a good level of protection. Consider your likely risk and invest accordingly. Bronze standard is recommended as the minimum standard. Communication is essential if we are to tackle bike crime effectively.  

  • Inform the police if you have your bike stolen; you can report the theft by phone or in person at your local police station. Ask for a crime reference number. This will help you trace the progress of your case and may be needed for your insurance claim.
  • Find out about/take part in local cycling initiatives, to raise awareness of cycle security.
  • Contact your local crime prevention officer, local authority, employer or the land owner about the installation of cycle parking where secure anchorages are insufficient or non-existent.
  • Don’t create a market in which thieves can operate.  If no one bought stolen bikes there would be no reason to steal them.

IF YOU THINK YOU ARE BEING OFFERED A STOLEN BIKE RING CRIMESTOPPERS ON 0800 555 111. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT – www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Joggers can be subject to attackAvoid Running into Danger

One of the most common New Year resolutions is to get fit. So if you’re thinking about running around the streets or jogging through the local park in the mornings or after work, spare a thought for how you can do it safely. Unfortunately, whilst not common, attacks on lone joggers or walkers do happen so it’s advisable to take extra care. The best idea could be to join a running club or arrange to go running or jogging with friends. Not only will you feel safer but you can motivate each other as well. If you do go out alone, plan your route carefully. Whenever possible, stick to well-lit, open and well-populated areas where you can be clearly seen and where you can see anyone approaching. Try to avoid quiet areas and heavily wooded areas where a person could be concealed. When running along roads, it’s always a good idea to run in the direction facing oncoming traffic to avoid kerb crawlers. It’s also advisable to vary the route and timing of your run whenever possible. Stay alert to your surroundings because the sooner you become aware of potential danger, the easier it is to avoid it. This means using both your eyes and your ears. It can be tempting to wear earphones and listen to music when running/jogging but they can prevent you from hearing danger approaching, so it is advisable to avoid wearing them when out running alone. If possible carry a personal alarm with you in case of emergencies and consider carrying a mobile – but keep it concealed and only use it when you have to. It can be tempting to push yourself to your physical limit when out running but try to ensure that you always have enough energy in reserve to run away from danger. Finally, always listen to your instincts. If something looks or feels wrong, it probably is. Don’t wait for your fears to be confirmed; play safe and move away from the situation or person as quickly as possible and head towards other people. Remember, there really is safety in numbers. Article courtesy of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust

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January Crime Report

Essex Police - Protecting & Serving EssexJanuary Crime Incidents

With the first couple of weeks seeing no reported crime in and around West Bergholt, the latter part saw little more:

Theft from a vehicle on the A12

Taking place on 13th January this involved a parked, secured, lorry on the A12, outside West Bergholt, which had the side curtains slashed and items removed.  Probably of no more than passing interest to residents (sorry).

Criminal Damage to a Vehicle in Mumford Close

Overnight on 23rd January the rear nearside door of a car was dented by unknown person and object.

Criminal Damage to a Vehicle in Mumford Close

Overnight on 28th January an unknown person scratched the full length of both nearside and offside of a parked vehicle.

Theft from a Vehicle in Chapel Road

Overnight on 29th January an unknown person gained entry to an insecure vehicle and following a messy search removed items.

Information Releases

Essex Police often issue information & advice updates with their crime reports, the following few about Alarms, Burglary facts and Microsoft scams have recently been received.

cctv.h2Intruder Alarms and/or CCTV

Please note that Essex Police do not recommend any particular product or supplier.

If you are considering an intruder alarm system it is advisable to seek advice from installers who are members of a professional body, such as: –

  • National Security Inspectorate, Sentinel House, 5 Reform Road, Maidenhead SL6 8BY Telephone: (switchboard): 01628 637512 – www.nsi.org.uk
  • SSAIB The Smoke Houses, Cliffords Fort, North Shields, Tyne & Wear NE30 1JE Telephone: 0191 296 3242 – www.ssaib.co.uk
  • British Security Industry Association (BSIA), Kirkham House, John Comyn Drive, Worcester, WR3 7NS – Telephone 0845 389 3889 – www.bsia.co.uk

For other security products that have ‘Police Preferred Specification’ status visit Secured by Design – www.securedbydesign.com

Systems should be fitted to British/European Standards – www.bsi-global.com

Always get at least 3 different approved installers to give you quotes before you decide.

Systems can be monitored at special centres (Alarm Reporting Centres), for a fee.  Reputable installers will give you more information on this, including an alternative option to link the alarm to alert mobile telephone numbers selected by you.

Essex Police respond to monitored alarm systems in accordance with guidelines issued by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) – www.acpo.police.uk   Phone 020 7084 8950.

Generally, Non- monitored alarm systems are not responded to unless the person reporting the activation says that an intruder has actually been seen to enter or be on the premises.

The speed of police response cannot be guaranteed. It will depend upon the number, location and availability of police units when the call is received and a police assessment of the threat level.

DIY outlets often sell intruder alarm systems. However, bear in mind that these are normally non-monitored systems. False activations can annoy neighbours and result in action by the Environment department at your local council. If you have one of these systems you need a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member who lives close by and can deal with activations in your absence.

Some systems can be linked to your telephone and programmed to alert specific personal telephone numbers (normally up to 6) if activation occurs.  Your telephone provider may make an extra rental charge for this facility. You will probably still need a trusted local person to respond in your absence.

Some mail order type companies market a whole range of alarms. You can see examples of these on web sites such as: –

(There are other providers).

Generally speaking, any intruder alarm is probably better than none. However, your choice should always be based on the following considerations: –

  • Is it appropriate?
  • Is it realistic?
  • Is it cost effective?
  • What am I trying to protect?

The above information is a basic summary of intruder alarm systems.

Burglar
Secure your home and remain vigilant

Burglary Facts – Did you know?

  • 35% of all burglaries are crimes of opportunity, where the burglar lets themselves in through unlocked doors or windows.
  • You are ten times more likely to be burgled if you don’t have basic security – even something as simple as putting strong locks on your doors and windows will keep your house much safer.
  • Burglary has fallen by nearly 60% since 1995, but criminals are opportunists who will take advantage of any chance to steal from you, so you should remain aware.
  • Burglars generally prefer empty properties, often looking for visual clues such as an empty drive and dark homes so any lights, televisions and radios left on are usually off-putting for burglars.
  • A common tactic employed by homeowners to make the house look occupied, leaving the curtains closed, actually encourages burglars who believe it indicates the occupants are on holiday.  If the property is going to be vacant for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbour to open and close curtains, collect milk from the door step, turn lights on and off, and remove unopened post that is visible etc. so that the property continues to look occupied.
  • Burglars are attracted by the sight of valuables, including car keys. They spot these by simply looking through windows and doors. Householders need to be careful about the type of goods that are on display.
  • Generally, burglars like to access property from the rear as it offers a safe environment. Having adequate fences and locked gates can make this a less inviting opportunity.

If you make your property more secure, it’s a lot harder for criminals to break in and it’s easier for police to catch them. For more crime prevention advice, go to http://essex.police.uk/be_safe.aspx.

mslogoMicrosoft Cold Calling Scam

The Neighbourhood Watch Liaison Officer has been made aware that persons are cold calling by telephone offering computer repairs, stating your computer has a problem with Microsoft.  Advice has been sought from Microsoft and they have given the following advice.

Neither Microsoft nor our partners make unsolicited phone calls (also known as cold calls) to charge you for computer security or software fixes.

They have advised that further information regarding how to avoid Phone scams can be found on the below website:

If anyone has been caught out by these types of callers they can report it directly to www.actionfraud.police.uk or by telephone 0300 1232040

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Are you at risk from burglary?

Burglar
Secure your home and remain vigilant

West Bergholt residents suffered 3 burglaries or attempted burglaries last week and Essex Police are cranking up their efforts to cut the incidence rate.  Their operation has identified a number of burglary hotspots in and around Colchester with parts of West Bergholt having been identified as a hot spot recently, in particular the hot areas in the West Bergholt and Eight Ash Green beat are:

  • Mumford Road,
  • Donard Drive,
  • Upton Close,
  • Lexden Road,
  • Chapel Road,
  • The Avenue,
  • Queen’s Road,
  • Spring Lane,
  • the Spinney,
  • The Retreat.

Members of our local communities can help the police by keeping vigilant, and through reporting any suspicious activity, which could relate to burglaries.  To report non-emergency incidents, or to give non-emergency information, please telephone 101, and, as always, dial 999 in an emergency.  It also pays, of course, to make sure that your property is locked, of the three recent incidents one was a result of forced entry, another no forced entry was necessary since a patio door was unlocked whilst the third was unsuccessful an attempt at forced entry left some damage but no entry was gained.

Information about suspicious persons, suspicious activity and related vehicles, will help Essex Police to keep crime Down!

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Nick Alston visiting to seek views on police & crime

Nick Alston
Nick Alston CBE, PCC for Essex

On 15th April, the Police Crime Commissioner, Nick Alston will be visiting Colchester and holding a public meeting at the Council Chambers at the Town Hall, High street, Colchester CO1 1PJ from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Please come along to hear Mr Alston’s plans for Essex and give your views on local policing.

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We’re gonna get a new sheriff

… well maybe not quite as dramatic as that but we are going to get new Police & Crime Commissioner  (PCC) elected in November who will have authority to make a real difference in policing in our community.

A PCC is independent and will be elected to oversee how crime will be tackled in the Essex police force area.

Their aim will be to cut crime and to ensure Essex Police is effective. They will bring more of a public voice to policing and they will do this by:

  • regularly engaging and meeting with the public to help set police and crime plans;
  • ensuring the police force budget is spent where it matters most; and
  • appointing the chief constable, and (if necessary) dismissing them if they have not performed well.

The PCC will not ‘run’ Essex Police. Chief constables will continue to be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the police force, but they will be accountable to the public via PCCs.

Polling is on 15th November and the candidates, as declared by the Police Area Returning Officer on 19th October, are as follows:

  • Nick ALSTON – Chelmsford – The Conservative Party Candidate
  • Linda BELGROVE – Alresford, Tendring – Independent
  • Val MORRIS-COOK – Chafford & North Stifford, Thurrock – The Labour Party Candidate
  • Andrew George SMITH – 69 Hemnall Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4LZ – United Kingdom Independence Party
  • Mick THWAITES – Shoeburyness, Southend-on-Sea – Independent
  • Robin TILBROOK – Quires Green, Willingale, Essex, CM5 0QP – English Democrats – “More Police – Catching Criminals!”
To find out more visit the http://www.choosemypcc.org.uk/ website – as well as telling you more about the election, after 26th October this will also provide information about each candidate.

This material has been developed for the West Bergholt Village Website at http://www.westbergholt.net
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Essex Police Report

Our Neighbourhood policing team have recently issued the following report which covers their Horkesley district covering areas including Fordham & Stour and West Bergholt & Eight Ash Green.

In the area of Wormingford there has been vandalism to the village hall and play equipment. Police welcome any information that can assist in identifying those responsible.

The open spaces in the area of Great Horkesley have been vandalised. Those with information about who is causing the damage please contact Police by dialing 101 or 0300 333 4444.

In relation to your property there are many ways you can protect it, for example the use of good door locking systems and CCTV. Being observant of your own and your neighbour’s property can assist in identifying people that are out of place or acting strange in your area.

Please continue to use the community phone number to speak with your local PCSO about any issues in the village on 07966 197 134. Please be aware that this number is not for reporting crimes and that 101 should be used in that instance.

Recently in the rural areas there have been metal thefts. If you witness any suspicious activity please report it to the Police as it could be a crime you are witnessing.

If you are experiencing nuisance issues the Council has a designated hotline of 01206 282581.

The next Neighbourhood Action Panel is on 23rd November 2011 18:00 – 20:00 at the Dedham Assembly Rooms, High Street, Dedham.

This material has been developed for the West Bergholt Village Website at http://www.westbergholt.net
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Essex Police 101 & other updates

From July 1st, Essex Police becomes one of the first forces to switch to the new, national, police non-emergency 101 telephone number (replacing 0300 333 4444).  You can use this number if you need to contact Essex Police about any non-emergency crime issue, to contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team, to seek crime prevention or personal safety advice, contact your nearest police station or to speak to us about any other non-emergency issue.

Please be assured that the emergency 999 number remains. unchanged and should continue be used if you have an emergency

Essex Police is currently undergoing a major change programme in order to save money, whilst continuing to provide a first class service to the public, and has already begun to make positive changes. The views of those who visit, live or work in Essex are extremely important to Essex Police and Essex Police Authority to enable them to take this programme forward and they would therefore be grateful if you could take a couple of minutes to answer the questions in their public on-line survey.  To do this, please go to www.essex.police.uk/authority and click on the Reform Survey link which will take you into the survey, or go directly to www.surveymonkey.com/s/7GSFLG5. This public survey is open to everyone and they are committed to seeking the views of as many people across Essex as they can and hope representation will be wide and varied. So, if you know of someone who you think might be interested in having their say and making a difference in their community, could you please take a moment to pass these details on to them and ask them to do the same with their contacts?

This material has been developed for the West Bergholt Village Website at http://www.westbergholt.net
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