Please note that 'Ringmaster messages' only refer to crimes that have been officially recorded and given a crime number.
Messages in 'red' have not been received from the Ringmaster team, the information has been obtained directly from the victims.

Check crimes in your area at http://www.police.uk/

For dates the Mobile Police Unit visits the area go to the diary page 

30 January 2012


‘Surf Safely’ – Police Support Staying Safe Online
Bedfordshire Police is supporting the international Safer Internet Day (SID) on Tuesday 7 February, 2012 and inviting local parents to learn more about keeping their children safe online at an event hosted by Bedford Girls School.
The theme of ‘Connecting generations and educating each other’ will be delivered by officers from the Local Policing Team from 7pm at the school in Cardington Road, Bedford. Parents, guardians or anyone who works with or cares for young people is welcome to the FREE event. To book a place, please https://jhodgkin.wufoo.com/forms/bedfordshire-police-presentation-on-e-safety/. Spaces are limited and will be issued on a first come first serve basis.
Throughout the day the force’s ten top tips for staying safe online will be sent through our twitter feed. 
Richard Denton the Children and Young People Development Officer for Bedfordshire Police said: “The Internet is a fantastic tool and the majority of the time it is a beneficial, fun and educational resource. We are just asking everyone to apply common sense and a few simple safety measures. Think about who you are talking to, the information you share and how you can maintain your privacy. We hope that this event will enhance the work we do all year round to keep young people safe online.”
Pippa Milton, Head of PSHE at Bedford Girls’ School, added: “We strive to equip all of our girls with the means to make informed decisions about their wellbeing and personal safety in every environment, including online.  
“This event aims to enhance parents’ and guardians’ understanding and awareness through the expert insight of Bedfordshire Police and we’re delighted to open our doors to the wider community and share knowledge in such an important field.”
To get up to date advice about staying safe online visit http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/ If you are concerned about any content or activity on your child's internet and social networking sites then please contact Bedfordshire Police by calling 101
For more information on the event go to http://www.saferinternet.org/web/guest/safer-internet-day-2012
Follow Bedfordshire Police top 10 Internet safety tips:
1.	Visit http://www.thinkuknow.co.uk/ to find out more about keeping safe online.
2.	Look at installing security products that allow parents / carers to block certain websites, implement time limits and monitor activity.
3.	Help your children to understand that they should never give out personal details to online friends they do not know offline.
4.	Explain to your children what information about them is personal: i.e. email address, mobile number, school name, sports club. Small pieces of information can easily be pieced together to form a comprehensive insight in to their lives and daily activities.
5.	Make your children aware that they need to think carefully about the information and pictures they post on their profiles. Inform them that once published online, anyone can change or share these images of them.
6.	It can be easy to forget that the internet is not a private space, and as a result young people sometimes engage in risky behaviour online. Advise your children not to post any pictures, videos or information on their profiles, or in chat rooms, that they would not want a parent or carer to see.
7.	If your child receives spam or junk email and texts, remind them never to believe their contents, reply to them or use them.
8.	It's not a good idea for your child to open files that are from people they don't know. They won't know what they contain—it could be a virus, or worse – an inappropriate image or film.
9.	Help your child to understand that some people lie online and that therefore it's better to keep online mates online. They should never meet up with any strangers.
10.	Always keep communication open for a child to know that it's never too late to tell someone if something makes them feel uncomfortable.
If you have information relating to online crime call Bedfordshire Police in confidence on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org



25/1/2012

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto friends, and neighbours.


Residents are asked to be vigilant and to review the security of all doors and windows, after a burglary took place at a farmhouse in Campton.

The offence took place on Tuesday the 24th of January, between 2:30 and 2:50 p.m.
The offender has arrived at the location in a white transit style van.
The front door to the farm house had been left unlocked, allowing a male offender to enter.
The occupant of the house has heard noises and went to the hallway.


The offender has run through the front door and jumped into the van.


The offender was a White male, with tanned skin. He was 25 to 30 years old, 6 foot 2. He wore a light grey tracksuit and trainers.

The driver of the vehicle was wearing a grey hooded top, with the hood up over the head.


Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.



If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Force Control Room on 1 0 1, and quote crime reference, J D / 2 9 8 3 / 2012.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011

Email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk



Alternatively you can contact the independent charity, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0 8 0 0 5 5 5 1 1 1

Or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. 

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Thank you for your support.

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto friends, and neighbours.



25/01/12

  Batman battles burglars – The Bill’s Graham Cole stamps out crime

Batman will be joined by actor Graham Cole, better known as PC Tony Stamp from The Bill, in Luton next week to help in a crack down on burglars across the county of Bedfordshire.

The caped crusader is part of a campaign by the independent charity Crimestoppers to encourage Bedfordshire residents to tell them what they know about burglary and who’s handling stolen goods in their communities.

And, like Batman, callers won’t be identified – the message being publicised by the masked hero is ‘It’s what you know, not who you are’.

Calls to the Crimestoppers’ 0800 555 111 number or information given through the website www.crimestoppers-uk.orgare 100% anonymous.

The event will launch Crimestoppers’ new burglary campaign which will see 120,000 postcards being sent out to homes in the county appealing for information on burglary and handling stolen goods. It also includes billboards, radio adverts and a short film on the human impact of burglary.

Tony Lloyd, Chair of Bedfordshire Crimestoppers, explained why the campaign was important: “Being burgled is not just about losing possessions, it also robs you of feeling safe in your own home. People should be able to feel secure and confident in their homes.

“No one has anything to fear by contacting Crimestoppers. No personal information is taken and calls are not traced or recorded. Those who give information do not have to give a statement to police or go to court. In the 24 years that we have been running, Crimestoppers has never broken its promise of anonymity”.

Graham Cole added: “After 27 years of playing a police officer I am proud to put my name to the “Stamp out Crime” campaign with Crimestoppers and their new Property Protector. Its powerful technology will deter crime and provide reassurance that you are buying an official Police security solution. Help defeat the burglars.”

Crimestoppers plays a major part in the fight against burglary and handling stolen goods. Last year Crimestoppers received 5442 pieces of actionable information about burglaries and theft, leading to 608 arrests and charges across the UK. More information about this burglary campaign by the charity, funded and supported by Bedfordshire Police, can be found at www.bedscrimestoppers.org

24 January 2012

Quarterly Crime Update

Quarterly crime figures published show overall levels in Bedfordshire for the 12 months to September 2011 are below the England and Wales average at 70 crimes per 1000 people compared to 74 crimes per 1000 people in England and Wales.

Results of the British Crime Survey, which have also been made available, show Bedfordshire’s victim satisfaction rates are currently showing an improving trend. The latest local data shows an improvement from 79% satisfaction in the 12 months to October 2010 to 82% in the 12 months to October 2011.

Chief Constable Alf Hitchcock said: “We note the recent report comparing figures to September 2011 and these represent an historic snapshot of where the Force was in 2010 and part of 2011 policing years. The Force is working hard to drive down those crimes that most harm communities including burglary, robbery and MSV (Most Serious Violence) as well as bringing to justice those responsible. The figure to the end of December shows our continuing success in reversing previous trends and we remain committed to fighting crime and protecting the public.”

The figures show crime levels in Bedfordshire have fallen in a number of crime categories – there has been a 25% reduction in “Sexual Offences”, a 9% reduction in “Offences against Vehicles”, a 6% reduction in “Criminal Damage” and a 24% reduction in “Other Offences”. Bedfordshire currently has the lowest rate of “Sexual Offences” in England and Wales.

There has been a 12% increase in “Violence against the person – without Injury” in Bedfordshire. However, Bedfordshire is still below the England and Wales average for this offence category at 7.3 crimes per 1000 people compared to the England and Wales rate of 7.7 crimes per 1000 people. Bedfordshire is also similar to the England and Wales crime rate for overall “Violence against the person” and for “Violence against the person – with Injury”.

Bedfordshire’s Domestic Burglary rate was 14.6 crimes per 1000 households compared to an England and Wales average of 11 crimes per 1000 households. This remains a priority for the force and rates for the period April to December 2011 are 19% lower than the period in April to December 2010 and the detection rate for Domestic Burglary has improved from 16% to 21%.

While the quarterly figures published show Bedfordshire had one of the highest Robbery levels in England and Wales in the 12 month period to September 2011 this equates to a Robbery rate of 1.3 crimes per 1000 people. Bedfordshire’s robbery level has remained unchanged in comparison to the previous 12 month period compared to a 4% increase in England and Wales. Robbery rates for the period April to December 2011 are 6% lower than the period in April to December 2010 and the detection rate for Robbery has improved from 19% to 23%.

Bedfordshire has a below average rate of recorded drug offences at 2.7 crimes per 1000 population compared to 4.2 crimes per 1000 people in England and Wales.

20/1/12


Residents are asked to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity in back gardens, after a burglary took place in Greenway, in Campton.

The offence took place on Thursday the 19th of January, between 1:00 and 4:00 p.m.

The offender gained access to the rear garden.

A ground floor window has been forced open.

A laptop, digital camera and jewellery have been taken.


Bedfordshire Police ask resident to review the security of all fences, gates and outbuildings.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, or trellis.

Avoid leaving garden tools out, where they can be used by an offender to force open a door or window.

Keep property like bikes locked away in a shed or garage.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.


If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Force Control Room on 1 0 1, and quote crime reference, J D / 2 3 8 5 / 2012.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011

Email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0 8 0 0 5 5 5 1 1 1, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Thank you for your support.

January 16 2012
 
Give Car Thieves a Frosty Reception
 
Bedfordshire Police are warning again about car owners leaving engines running in the drive while they retreat to a warm house and wait for the windscreens on their cars to defrost.
With freezing temperatures hitting the county in the last few days, the perennial problem of opportunist thieves taking advantage has returned.
On Friday (Jan 13), a car was stolen from Miles Avenue in Leighton Buzzard after the owner tried to do a favour for his wife and start the defrosting process. But he left the engine running while he went back to the house and the vehicle was stolen – although it was found an hour later not far away.
“Unfortunately, many motorists across the country fall victim to this kind of theft every year,” said Insp Matt Thompson, of the Roads Policing Unit. “It is a temptation to leave cars unattended, especially during the winter months. But if you do this you are not only increasing the chances of having your car stolen, you are also unlikely to receive any money from your insurance company.”
“Please don't make it easy for criminals - there are plenty of products on the market to prevent frost or remove it quickly but the best way, by far, is to stay with your vehicle while it is being defrosted,” he said.
“And not leaving keys in the car – even on your drive and even for a minute or two – is something that police would like people to remember all year round.”
For more advice about how to secure your vehicles and property, please contact your local crime reduction office via Bedfordshire Police on 101 or log on to www.bedfordshire.police.uk



January 11, 2012
 
SINGLE NON-EMERGENCY 101 POLICE NUMBER NOW UK WIDE
 
A single non-emergency 101 number has been rolled out to all police forces across England and Wales to help the public to access the police when they need them.
Bedfordshire Police launched ‘101’in September. It gives the public a memorable number for their local police to report crimes and concerns that do not require an emergency response. It will also help the police to deal more efficiently with calls for help from the public.
At 15p per call from both mobile phones and landlines, no matter how long the call or what time of day, the public will be spared the cost of traditional 0845 numbers previously used by many forces which can cost up to 40p per minute.
With only 25 per cent of 999 calls to the police requiring an emergency response, ministers and chief constables are confident that the 101 number will also ease pressure on 999 services. Police forces in England and Wales have gradually gone live with 101 on a phased basis. The last of the 43 forces have now adopted the number and it is already proving popular with more than two and a half million calls.
Commander Ian Dyson, ACPO lead on contact management, said: “Having just two phone numbers - 101 for reporting a crime that has happened, to get advice or to raise local policing issues - or 999 if it's an emergency, makes calling the police a lot easier and makes our services more accessible.
"It's also expected to reduce the number of inappropriate 999 calls the service receives, enabling us to respond to genuine emergencies more effectively. 999 should only be used in an emergency, that is when a crime is happening, when someone suspected of a crime is nearby, or where someone is injured, being threatened or in danger. For all other matters the public should call us on 101.”



22/12/11

Simple Steps to Reduce Heartache of Burglary

With Father Christmas getting set to do his rounds at the weekend, Bedfordshire Police is urging residents to take a few extra actions to prevent heartache should anyone be the victim of crime over the festive period. 
At a time when expensive gifts are being exchanged, criminals seize on the opportunity to commit burglaries in the hope of scooping brand new items that they can then sell on.  
Residents are being urged to register with the UK National Property Register at www.immobilise.com where they can log any items such as mobile phones, computers, bicycles, appliances and jewellery. Immobilise will record serial numbers and also allows the user to upload pictures and a brief description of the item. 
The Immobilise database is linked directly to a number of police systems across the UK which makes it easier for officers to trace the owners of any recovered items as well as identifying items that have been found on suspected criminals. 
Another measure that residents can consider is security marking their property with Ultra-Violet (UV) pens or chemical DNA marking solutions which can also be used on jewellery. 
Inspector Jim Hitch of Bedfordshire Police said: “No one likes to think about being the victim of crime at such a happy time of year, but unfortunately there are people out there who prey on people at this time of year for that very reason. 
“Registering your items with Immobilise only takes a few minutes and is completely free of charge, but the benefits of it could be priceless. By taking photos of your items, you would also providing the police with great intelligence – if you have jewellery, then place the item next to a ruler when taking the photo so that it is clear how big the item is. 
“Bedfordshire Police is working tirelessly to combat the threat of burglary in the run up to Christmas and beyond but I hope that residents take the time to register and mark their belongings to make sure anything stolen really is ‘too hot to handle’.”  
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Reduction co-ordinators continue to actively target the problem at the moment but anything that can be done to prevent the problem in the first place is invaluable. 
Other measures that residents can take to reduce the threat of burglary include: 
•	Keep vehicle keys out of sight at night
•	If you have a garage, use it
•	Ensure security lights are working and your car is locked and alarmed
•	Ensure all doors and windows are locked
•	If you see someone acting suspiciously, telephone the police
•	Join a Neighbourhood Watch or Street Watch scheme
If you have information relating to any burglaries, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011. 
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.  

Make Sure You Stay Safe This Christmas and New Year

It’s that time of year again…..Christmas parties, office functions and so much food you don’t know which way to turn and of course ALCOHOL. 

Bedfordshire Police would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas and happy New Year but would also like to take the opportunity to warn party goers about the dangers of excess alcohol. 

“Many of us don’t really indulge during the year as much as we do during the festive season and the consequences of drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can be severe”, warns Superintendent Dave Boyle, who is heading this year’s Christmas and New Year safety campaign. 

“I would like to remind members of the public not only to consider the drink drive laws and driving the day after a night out, but to take extra precautions about their personal safety when they are out enjoying themselves,” he added. 

Here are some easy safety tips that members of the public can follow to help keep them safe over the festive period: 

• We all like to plan a night out but make sure you also plan how to get home safely.
• When out with friend’s stay with them, stay together and stay safe.
• Watch what you are drinking – keep an eye on how much and what you are drinking.
• Always use a reputable taxi service and never get into a taxi which has not been ordered by you or is not displaying the Hackney licence details.
• And don’t forget a good night out deserves remembering, have fun, be safe, hold on to your smile and walk away from any trouble.

Bedfordshire Police will be running Christmas initiatives throughout the festive season in the towns and busy areas throughout the county and together with their partners will crackdown on those being anti social whilst keeping an eye out for anyone who has over indulged and needs help.

This is a message to all member in the Bedfordshire area, sent of behalf of the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum .
BLLRF supports the ‘What would you do if...?’ campaign which aims to help everybody living or working within Bedfordshire and Luton to be prepared and consider what they would do if faced with an emergency.
 
Media release
16 December 2011
Over a quarter of Bedfordshire residents would save pets in an emergency 
Over a quarter of local residents would save their pets first in an emergency according to a survey carried out by the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum (BLLRF).
BLLRF surveyed residents across Bedfordshire to ask questions related to emergency planning and how they would react in an emergency. Of those surveyed, 27 per cent said they would save their pets in an emergency with an equal number of residents saving precious photographs. Only 15 per cent opted to save family members.
BLLRF Chair and Bedfordshire Police Assistant Chief Constable, Katherine Govier,   said: “In an emergency it is important to act quickly, we recommend each household has an evacuation plan so you know exactly what you would do if an emergency such as a flood or fire occurred. The survey reveals Bedfordshire is a very pet-friendly county, and our emergency advice actually states residents should take their pets with them in emergencies. Facilities will be available for animals at every rest centre.
“Our website http://www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk/contains details of how to create an evacuation plan for your household. It is also a good idea to have an emergency kit with water, non-perishable food and basic medical essentials at home or in the car to help make your first few hours in emergency situation more comfortable. Obviously in a fire we recommend you evacuate immediately but in some situations it might be possible for you to take your kit with you.”
As the harsh winter weather approaches, BLLRF is embarking on a winter weather campaign to help residents stay warm and safe through the cold weather. ‘A preparing for winter section’ has been added to the http://www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk/. BLLRF will also be tweeting emergency planning advice on @what_would and posting advice on http://www.facebook.com/whatwouldyoudoif


19 December 2011


Police Warn Against Making 0 Allegations
Bedfordshire Police is reminding residents of the dangers of making false allegations and wasting police time. 
During December, detectives have investigated three separate robberies which turned out to be false claims. Each of the incidents required officers to take statements, undertake door-to-door enquiries and view hours of CCTV footage before the truth was discovered. 
On Thursday December 15, a 49-year-old woman claimed that she had been robbed of money and her mobile phone after visiting the Post Office in Shortstown. Officers attended the scene and carried out an area search for the two ‘offenders’ but when detectives later questioned the woman, she revealed that she had made the allegation up. 
At around 10.30pm on Friday December 2, Bedfordshire Police received a report that a man in a wheelchair had been robbed in Goldington Avenue, Bedford. The man claimed that three teenagers wearing hooded tops and carrying a knife had stolen £200 from him. Detectives carried out a large search for the offenders, but again the crime report was found to be false. The same applied to a report from a 14-year-old boy who claimed that he was assaulted and robbed of his mobile phone on Monday December 5. 
Detective Sergeant Gary Maxey of the Serious Crime Investigation Team at Bedfordshire Police, said: “We always take any report of robbery extremely seriously and will do all that we can to capture the offenders as quickly as possible. Unfortunately we have seen a number of incidents this month where people have purposefully made up claims and wasted quite a considerable amount of police time. 
“I’d like to remind residents that making false allegations – whether they be robbery or any other crimes - and wasting police time is a serious offence which could result in the person making the claims being prosecuted. In these cases we quickly established that stories just weren’t adding up and were able to warn the claimants about their actions.” 
To report any crime please contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011. Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-

17 November 2011

10 November 2011

Have You Seen Stolen Bright Yellow Van?
Bedfordshire Police are appealing for sightings of a bright yellow van that was stolen following a house burglary in Ampthill yesterday (Wednesday 9 November). 
The yellow Vauxhall Vivaro registration number KG05 DYJ was taken from outside a house in The Crescent where its owner was doing some work. The keys for the van had been left inside the house and were taken by offenders who broke into the property at around 2pm. 
The driver, who was at the back of the property working, did not see those responsible but realised his van had gone 20 minutes later. 
DC Martin Hynes, investigating said: “The victim was working at a property and his van is part of his business. Without it he is severely hampered as it and its contents are his livelihood. The van is bright yellow and there are not many Vivaro’s that colour so I am confident people may have seen it being driven around since yesterday. If you have any information that can help, please come forward.” 
If you have information relating to this incident, contact DC Hynes in confidence, on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011. Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org


This is a message to all member in the Bedfordshire area, sent of behalf of the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum .
BLLRF supports the ‘What would you do if...?’ campaign which aims to help everybody living or working within Bedfordshire and Luton to be prepared and consider what they would do if faced with an emergency.
 
Media release
9 November 2011
Resilience forum urges motorists to carry emergency kits following M5 crash
Following the tragic M5 car crash which resulted in seven
fatalities and over fifty people being injured last weekend, a
local resilience forum is urging residents to carry
emergency kits in their cars.
 
To read the full article please use the link below
http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/pdf/081111_emergency_kits.pdf
 
Thank you for your support


November 3, 2011
 
Shed Breaks – Check Your Home Security NOW
 
Bedfordshire residents are being warned to check their sheds and garages are secure after a series of break-ins across the county.
Bicycles and mopeds are on the top of burglars’ lists of things to steal, but gardening equipment and other household items are also popular and easy to get at if people continue to leave their outbuildings and gardens insecure.
Neighbourhoods across the county have seen an increase in the number of thefts, which in terms sees crime figures rise dramatically because people are not making sure their sheds, garages and gardens are secure or locked, and property within it secure.
Bedfordshire Police Crime Reduction Officer Lesley Johnson, said: “We would encourage everyone who keeps a bicycle or moped in their garage or shed to not only lock the door but secure the bike as well. In addition to this, don’t leave bolt croppers, lopping-shears or other such items lying around, making it easy for burglars to free your property and run off with it in a matter of seconds. We must all have a common sense to security and do our bit to reduce crime.”
Many householders do not consider the value of the goods in the shed and therefore look after them accordingly. If your shed only contains a few broken pots and seed trays then closing the door with a bent nail might be adequate. However – if like so many – your shed contains the mower, strimmer, power tools, barbecue and kids’ bikes then the old bent nail is woefully inadequate. Thieves are not averse to stealing items, which need a trailer or van either – ride-on lawnmowers and particularly quad bikes are very popular.
However, there are steps to take that will deter most thieves:
 
•	Check gates and fences – are there any weak spots – a high back wall and a thorny hedge are two great deterrents.
•	Side passage - fit a strong gate.
•	Sheds and garages – buy and USE a good quality lock, padbolt or hasp and staple with padlocks.
•	Consider an inexpensive alarm system.
•	Do you really need a window in the shed or could it be boarded up?
•	Mark your property with postcode. You can buy cheap kits from most DIY stores, which enable you to etch the number on – or simply paint it on. This is more effective than “invisible” marking which can fade. You could share the cost of the kit with neighbours and friends.
Bedfordshire Police and Crime Reduction co-ordinators continue to actively target the problem at the moment but anything that can be done to prevent the problem in the first place is invaluable.
If you have information relating to any burglaries, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
 
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111,or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.



1/11/11

This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Neighbourhood Watch. 

Please pass the details of this message to other members of your group.



This is an invitation to the next Quarterly Meeting of the Bedford and District Neighbourhood Watch.

Please note that there has been a change of date.


The meeting will take place on Thursday the 24th of November.

At Bedfordshire Police Headquarters, in Woburn Road, Kempston

Refreshments will be available from 7:00 p.m. and the meeting will start at 7:30 p.m.

The guest speaker will be Superintendant, Mark Turner.



To book a place, please call the Neighbourhood Watch central office on (01234) 275165

or email Lynne.Arch@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your support.




31/10/11

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto friends and neighbours.



Bedfordshire Police remind vehicle owners to remove all property from vehicles when parked, after a theft took place in Greenway, in Campton.

The offence took place between 3:30 p.m. on the 29th and 5:00 p.m. on the 30th of October.

The offender has approached a vehicle parked in the street.

The vehicle was a Silver, 60 registered, Ford Van.

Storage tubes on the roof of the vehicle had been left unlocked.

Copper piping has been removed.


The offender has also accessed the rear garden at the same address.

Some lead has been taken from behind the shed.




Please remember to remove all valuables from the vehicle when ever it is left unattended.

Remember to remove the holder for any Satellite Navigation Systems, or Mobile phones, and clean away any marks left on the windscreen or dashboard.

Leaving the empty glove box open will also discourage an offender breaking into the vehicle.

For more information on reducing vehicle crime visit 

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Vehicle%20Crime.html 



If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Force Control Room on 1 0 1, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,4,4,1,0,7,/2011.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 

Email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk



Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. 

No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Thank you for your support.


October 27, 2011
 
Who is Motorist caught on CCTV?
 
BEDFORDSHIRE Police have released CCTV pictures of a man that they would like to speak to in connection with a series of theft of fuel from filling stations across Bedfordshire.
 
There have been 11 incidents when the man has gone to petrol stations, filled his car and then left without making any attempt to pay. The most recent offence happened at around 12.30pm on Monday October 17 when the red Citroen Saxo with the number plate KE51 XEX pulled into the Sainsburys Service Station in Luton Road, Dunstable and filled his car with £54.76 of unleaded fuel before making off without paying.
 
The offender is described as Asian, aged between 25 and 30 years old, of medium build, around five foot six to five foot eight inches tall and with black, slicked back hair. On the most recent occasion he was wearing a black jacket, blue T-shirt and blue jeans.
 
The number plate that is being used by the offender has been taken from a vehicle that was written off in March 2010. So far the offender has stolen £507.69 worth of fuel over the last four months in Luton and Dunstable.
 
If you have information relating to these thefts or know who the offender is, then contact PC John Rankine, in confidence, on 01234 846949, the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.
 
Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111,or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.



28/10/11

"Make your house look and feel occupied at all times to stop burglars this winter". This the advice Bedfordshire Police wants the public to follow.

Often the dark winter nights provide easy pickings for burglars with an increase in burglary numbers being recorded as the clocks go back at the end of October.

Traditionally the numbers of break-ins go up by as much as half when it gets dark earlier and as Bedfordshire Police continues to reduce burglaries throughout the county and promoting crime reduction, officers are urging the public to help.

Head of Community Safety for the force, Police Inspector Alex House, said: “It is known that burglars will not often target homes that are occupied and making sure your property looks and feels like someone is home can be all that is needed to keep your belongs safe.

“Simple crime prevention measures really can make all the difference such as leaving the lights on in main rooms and keeping a radio switched on and tuned in to a talk radio station. Thieves are essentially lazy opportunists, and if they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time, or risk being seen, they are unlikely to bother.”

Make sure YOU follow our annual advice to make YOUR home secure and help Bedfordshire Police reduce the number of burglaries this winter.
 
•	Use your lights – keep them on a timer. Make sure they are switched on early even if you leave them on whilst going shopping or on the school run. And remember; use the lights in a main room and not in the hall way so it looks like someone is home.
•	Keep your radio switch on and tuned in to a talk station so it sounds like someone is at home.
•	Make sure your doors are securely locked at all times.
•	If you have UPVC door make sure they are double locked.
•	Lock all windows and fit restricters – thieves can wriggle through any gap larger than a human head.
•	Fit locks at the top and bottom of patio doors.
•	Visible burglar alarms make burglars think twice – make sure you switch them on when you go out.
•	Never leave garages or sheds unlocked.
•	Check for weak spots and sagging fences on your boundary.
•	Stop a thief from getting into the back of the house where he can work unseen by fitting a strong, high gate across a side passage.
•	Be alert to strangers loitering in the street. If you don’t recognise them or they are acting suspiciously, call the police.
•	Don’t hide your keys under the mat or in a flowerpot – it’s the first place they look.
•	Help us beat the bogus caller, always stop at the door, check the chain is on and verify the caller’s identification before opening your door. IF IN DOUBT DON’T LET THEM IN.
•	Don’t forget to security mark your property and register it on www.immobilise.com.
•	And finally remember, if a burglar does get in to your home handbags, wallets, and house or car keys are obvious targets, so please don’t leave them in a prominent position such as at the bottom of the stairs. Remember the force Key Safe initiative and put your keys safely out of sight.
For more free crime prevention advice contact your nearest police station or speak to your local policing team on 101.
You can also email the Crime Reduction Team at crimereduction@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



 06 October 2011
Beware Of Distraction Burglars
POLICE are warning pensioners to be on their guard following three similar distraction burglaries that have happened in Dunstable and Caddington.
The most recent incident happened at 12.45pm on Tuesday October 4, when an offender called at the house of an 81-year-old man in Waterlow Road, Dunstable. The male offender told the victim that there had been some damage to his fence that he wanted to pay for repairs. The offender then asked the victim to show him the fence so he could see how much damage had been caused.
In the meantime a second offender slipped into the property and stole the man’s wallet which contained a large sum of money. At this point the victim heard another man shout out and the first offender then fled the property. The victim went to the front door, but couldn’t see the offender anywhere and after inspecting his home, he realised that he had been robbed and went to a neighbour’s house for help.
This offence is similar to an attempted distraction burglary in West Street, Dunstable at 2pm, on Thursday September 29. On this occasion three men approached an elderly man’s house telling him that a window at the back of the property had been broken and asked for access to the garden to show him the damage. The resident became suspicious of the story and asked the men to leave.
Later the same day, a distraction burglary took place in Manor Road, Caddington. At 2.45pm a man called at the front door claiming that some fencing in the back garden had been damaged. He asked to have access to show the elderly resident the damage and has suggested that it had been caused by a child playing in a neighbouring garden. Whilst in the back garden the resident has become suspicious and has asked the man to leave. As they re-entered the house a second offender was seen in the house. Both men fled taking a handbag belonging to the victim which was later recovered in another part of Caddington.
Detective Constable Catherine Layton who is investigating the incidents said: “We have become used to distraction burglars claiming to be from utility companies or the emergency services, but it appears that they are attempting a new method of gaining access to properties.
“We would remind the elderly to be extremely cautious about anyone calling at their home, to always use a spy hole and door chain and to insist on identification. If you are in any way suspicious, dial 999.”
If you have an elderly relative, friend or neighbour now is a good time to remind them not to let unexpected visitors into their homes and follow these tips:
•	Always use a door chain or spy-hole to check who is calling before you open the door. Shut and lock the back door before you open the front – these offenders often work in pairs.
•	All utility staff carry ID cards. Make them show the card, and then use the number in the phone book to call the relevant company and check that they are a genuine member of staff. Make sure they wait outside while you do this.
•	Always stay with the caller while they are in your home. You should be suspicious if they want to look round on their own.
•	Never show anyone where you keep valuables. Do not keep large amounts of money in the house – even if you think it is well hidden.
•	If you are at all suspicious of the caller, DO NOT LET THEM IN. Lock the door and call the police.
If you would like to arrange a visit from a local Crime Reduction Officer to help keep burglars out, please contact Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212.
Anyone with information about these offences can contact DC Layton at Dunstable Police Station on 01582 473375, call the non-emergency telephone number on 101, text to 07786 2000 11 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.


101 Non-Emergency Number

Bedfordshire Police have launched a new number providing people with a new way to get in touch about non-emergency issues. 101 is now the main number to call Bedfordshire Police when it is less urgent than 999
As well as making the police more accessible to communities, it is intended that 101 will reduce the number of inappropriate 999 calls. There will be a single flat charge of 15p per call, regardless of the duration, time of day, mobile or landline.
You should call 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. For example:
•	Stolen cars
•	If you suspect drug dealing/taking
•	To give us information about crime in your area
•	To speak to your Local Policing Team 
In an emergency, always call 999 when you need an immediate response, For example:
•	Because a crime is in progress
•	Someone suspected of a crime is nearby
•	When there is danger to life
•	When violence is being used or threatened 
101 will not:
•	Change the way in which we respond to non emergency calls
•	Connect people to a large national call centre
•	Result in calls receiving a lower priority than if 999 had been called for a non emergency issue
101 should not be used to report:
•	Fly tipping
•	Noise pollution
•	Stray dogs 
These should initially be reported to your local council:
•	Central Bedfordshire Council: 0300 300 8000
•	Luton Borough Council: 01582 546000
•	Bedford Borough Council: 01234 267422

Let’s Talk Together Community Meetings

We’d like more people from our communities to get involved with the work we do.

It’s only by listening to what our communities tell us that we can work together to make Central Bedfordshire a really great place in which to live, work, learn and travel.

Let’s Talk Together community meetings will give members of the community and local groups the opportunity to discuss their particular issues and concerns with Councillors and  representatives from key organisations such as police, health, children/education, community safety, environment, business and volunteering to name but a few.

Tuesday 25 October

St Mary’s Church Hall

Church Road, Stotfold, SG5 4NE

7:00pm – 9:00pm

 Why not come along?

05 September 2011


Bedford Burglar Sentenced
A Bedford burglar has been sentenced to 18 months a court heard on Friday (2 September) after Jason Hill, aged 31, decided to come clean about offences police had no idea were linked to him while in his Bedford prison cell.
He pleaded guilty at Luton Crown Court to two offences of theft and one offence of burglary but he also asked for 54 other similar offences to be taken into consideration.
He admitted the thefts and burglaries which involved ripping copper piping out of unoccupied council houses in the Chicksands area which he could sell to scrap metal dealers and fund his drug habit.
At the end of the hearing Recorder Leslie Cuthbert told Hill "You have done yourself a great service by admitting these matters. But for your assistance you might never have been identified"
Will Moble prosecuting said it was on July 19 this year when Hill who was a serving prisoner at Bedford Prison contacted police and said he wished to speak to them about other crimes he had committed.
In an interview with officers he told them about how he had broken into an unoccupied home in 1man Place Chicksands and stolen copper piping which he sold to a scrap metal merchant for around £50 to £60.
He told officers about another break in in the same street as well as one in Hoover place.
Emma Reid defending said said the issues behind his offending had been heroin abuse and unemployment.
 
Please note – all court copies are provided by South Beds News Agency, who retain the copyright© for all articles published.
 

1/9/11

This is a message from Bedfordshire Police to all members of the community.

Bedfordshire Police has received reports of victims receiving telephone calls from an unknown person who has been offering loans.

The unknown person has been telling the victim that in order to get the loan the purchase of a UKASH voucher - which can range from between £200 and £300 - needs to be made and then the voucher number should be given to the unknown person.

However, the loans are never issued to the victims and the unknown person disappears.

Bedfordshire Police would like to remind all members of the Community that the UKASH vouchers system is a genuine voucher system but has often times been misused by the criminal elements.

Please be warned: If a UKASH voucher number is given out it can be used by anyone over the internet without any details of ownership being required.

Thank you.


15 August 2011


Night time burglaries
Bedfordshire police are reminding people to lock their doors and windows after two night time burglaries took place over the weekend.
An elderly couple were burgled whilst asleep at their home, during the early hours of Saturday 13 August.
The first incident happened at a bungalow on Harewood Road, Bedford. The man entered the property through an insecure bedroom window which was next to the bed the couple were sleeping in.
The woman was woken to find a hooded man searching a wardrobe in their bedroom. She called out to the intruder but he then fled the scene through the front door, which was also unlocked.
Cash was stolen along with a Sainsbury’s savings card with the value of £44 on, the couple were saving towards Christmas. Sainsbury’s, Clapham Road, kindly reimbursed the card.
The second burglary took place at around 11:30pm on Saturday evening.
An elderly husband and his wife were at their home, Green Lane, Clapham, when the incident took place.
The woman called out to her husband after she disturbed the offender at the top of the stairs. The man tried to wrestle the intruder however he managed to get away through the kitchen door. He is believed to have only taken the lady’s watch.
Police are looking into the possibility that the two burglaries are related. Anyone with any information should contact the officer in charge, DC Andrew Boston, in confidence, on 01234 275351, or text information to 07786 200011.
Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.



12th August 2011
Teenager Remanded in Custody
The 17 year old youth charged with using social media networks to ‘Encourage Others To Commit Burglary’ has been remanded in custody until Tuesday.
The youth, from the Stopsley area of Luton, was remanded in custody by Luton Magistrates Court this morning and will appear before Luton Youth Court on Tuesday.
The charge falls under Section 44 of the Serious Crime Act 2007.
Det Insp Ged McCarthy, who is investigating the case, said: “We have not had serious disorder in Bedfordshire but that is no reason to be complacent. All digital communications leave a trace somewhere and we are continuing to monitor the situation. If we discover other offences we will make further arrests. If anybody has information about people committing offences or encouraging others to do so, please do contact the police.”
Anyone with information should call the main switchboard 01234 841212, text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. 


10 August 2011


Calm Maintained Across Bedfordshire Overnight
 
As a result of robust policing overnight any opportunity for disorder to take place was prevented and dealt with – no arrests were made.
Overall the evening passed quietly with only a handful of youths gathering at various times with the majority of ‘activity’ taking place virtually on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter where any rumour of disorder was quickly discounted by Bedfordshire Police communications staff working alongside police colleagues in the Control Room throughout the night.
Although no significant disorder took place small pockets of disturbance were reported up until around 2am in Luton where a group of youths threw stones at police officers and a number of small fires were started. In Bedford while there was some evidence of youths gathering no actual disorder took place.
No disorder was reported in Dunstable, however, at 12.15am officers attend a small fire at the Norman King public house in Church Street, Dunstable, which is currently under refurbishment and was empty at the time. The building is a listed property with a thatched roof, causing fire to spread very quickly. As a result of the smoke and rapid spread of the fire around 50 occupants who were staying in the neighbouring Old Palace Lodge had to be evacuated to the Holiday Inn at junction 9 of the M1. Elderly residents of the Alms houses opposite the Norman King were initially taken to The Nags Head in High Street North but allowed to return to their properties by the fire service at around 2.30am. No one was injured. Church Road was closed but reopened at 5.15am.
Detectives are treating this as arson but do not believe the blaze is directly linked to any pre-planned disorder going on elsewhere. CCTV will be examined to establish who was responsible for starting the fire. Anyone with information should contact Dunstable CID on 01582 473326.
Last night Chief Constable Alf Hitchcock recorded a comment onto the force’s latest social networking site – AudioBoo – which was listened to by more than 700 people as well as being posted on Facebook and Twitter. He said:
“As Chief Constable I’d like to reassure you that we are taking all appropriate measures to prevent disorder and protect individuals and communities in our county. I am proud of the excellent work and commitment of the officers and staff here, who have been working hard to ensure we achieve this. We are continuing to do all that is necessary to maintain a safe and peaceful county.
“I’d also like to thank all those of you as members of the public who have been helping us dispel rumours and prevent misinformation during this time, by sharing the updates we have been providing. It is a great positive reflection on the people and communities in Bedfordshire.”
Bedfordshire Police will continue to monitor the situation regarding the potential for disorder and provide a robust policing response as appropriate.




9th August 2011 We can confirm that speculation on social media sites that ‘rioting’ had begun in Bedford and Luton last night (8 August) was untrue.
 
Extra officers were deployed to known hotspot areas in Bedfordshire during the night and as a result disrupted any potential for disorder that may have occurred. TheForce Communications team posted messages via Twitter and Facebook to reassure communities that all was quiet across the county.
We aim to continue this level of service to reassure Bedfordshire residents and to help prevent the spread of rumours relating to potential disorder.
Rest assured that should there be any incidents in Bedfordshire over the coming days, we will keep you informed through the following methods:
 
SMS Text Messaging Service – Text POLICE to 88020 to receive updates. Messages will only be sent should anything occur in Bedfordshire.
Facebook – We have placed posting restrictions on our page to help prevent the spread of rumours. We will not be responding to individual comments; however we will post regular updates should anything happen in Bedfordshire.
Twitter – We will tweet regular updates via @bedspolice should anything happen in Bedfordshire.
 
Ringmaster – You can join online at www.safer-beds.org. Messages will only be sent should anything occur in Bedfordshire.
 
Please make use of these available services to ensure you receive up-to-date and factual information.
Anyone with information that could assist police in their prevention of disorder should call the main switchboard on 01234 841212, text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.



Press Release on behalf of the Community Safety Partnership 
27th July 2011
 
Lift the Handle, turn the key
This is the simple message being given to residents by the Community Safety Partnership to reduce the risk of burglary.
Following the success of Bedfordshire Police’s Operation Peak which aimed to reduce burglaries during the winter months, Central Bedfordshire Council and its partners are now passing on a clear message to communities, ensure your properties are secure all year round.
By securely locking UPVC doors - along with keeping valuables out of sight – burglaries around the area could be prevented particularly as the evenings are getting longer, the weather starting to warm up and people spending times in their gardens thinking their houses won’t be a target.
All too often police get reports of people who have come in from the garden to find someone has slipped through a front or back door and grabbed easily removable items such as handbags or wallets – or even keys along with the family car.
Most thieves are lazy opportunists and if they see a door left wide open, or possibly unlocked with the owner engrossed elsewhere, they will not hesitate to take advantage of the situation.
Another very common method of entry is whereby offenders will smash a window or a pane of glass close to the door lock, reach in and open the front or rear door from the inside. This is made possible if a key has been left in the back of the door, the door only has a simple latch lock and no deadlock, or if a lock exists but is not used.
Whilst it is important to implement measures to protect your property from burglary it is also very important to be able to escape quickly in the event of a fire.   Therefore, keep a window key in every room and ensure that door keys are easily accessible near to your front and back doors.  You should also develop and practice a fire escape plan for your home and make sure that all members of the household including visitors know how to quickly and safely evacuate the building.
Cllr Brian Spurr, Executive Member for Sustainable Communities Services at Central Bedfordshire Council said: "By taking very small and simple steps we can help reduce the amount of burglaries that take place around Central Bedfordshire. The summer is a time when people are out and enjoying the weather, but everyone needs to be vigilant and take measures to ensure that they do not become a victim of crime."
Other ways to deter burglars include:
• Fit outside security lights and put gates across side passages;
• Leave lights and a radio on when you go out;
• Double check fences and boundaries for weak spots;
• Fit security features such as window locks, patio door locks and a burglar alarm;
• Never leave keys under mats and flower pots, it’s the first place burglars look;
• Keep an eye out for strangers in your street, especially if they are selling property door to door. If you are suspicious, call the police; and
• Help protect your neighbourhood by joining Home Watch, or becoming a co-ordinator.
LINK [County_lift_the_handle_turn_the_key.pdf]



This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto any friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police remind vehicle owners to remove all property from vehicles when parked, after a theft took place in Greenway in Campton, on Friday the 15th of July.

The offence took place between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The vehicle was a Blue, 56 registered, Volkswagen.

It is not known how the offender gained entry to the vehicle as there are no signs of a forced entry.

A wallet and some money have been taken.


Please remember to remove all valuables from the vehicle when ever it is left unattended.

Remember to remove the holder for any Satellite Navigation Systems, or Mobile phones, and clean away any marks left on the windscreen or dashboard.

Leaving the empty glove box open will also discourage an offender breaking into the vehicle.

For more information on reducing vehicle crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Vehicle%20Crime.html 

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,9,4,4,6,/2011.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.


  15 July 2011 
Queues for CAPS!
More dates for this already successful campaign...  
Bedfordshire officers working on the force’s Car Accessory Protection Scheme (CAPS) initiative have been heartened by the public’s response and are now making more dates available for this free crime prevention service. 
At these locations, local policing teams will secure motorists registration plates with tamper proof screws and provide crime prevention advice. We are urging all members of the public to take advantage of our professional support to help safeguard their cars - valuable property, much sought-after by thieves!  
Barton-le-Clay
•	27 July, 1.00pm – 2.00pm, Luton Road Recreation Ground.
•	17 August, 1.00pm – 2.00pm, Luton Road Recreation Ground. 
Campton
•	18 August, 3.45pm – 4.30pm, Rectory Road. 
Clifton
•	18 August, 2.00pm – 3.00pm, One Stop Shop car park. 
Dunstable
•	30 July, 4.00pm - 5.00pm, Tesco.
•	6 August, 4.00pm - 5.00pm, Asda.
•	13 August, 2.00pm - 3.00pm, White Lion Retail Park.  
Houghton Regis
•	27 July, 2.00pm – 5.00pm, Windsor Drive.
•	4 August, 2.00pm – 5.00pm, Tithe Farm Recreation.
•	10 August, 12noon – 4.00pm, Winsor Drive.
•	17 August, 2.00pm – 5.00pm, Windsor Drive.
•	25 August, 11.00am – 3.00pm, Windsor Drive.
•	31 August, 2.00pm – 5.00pm, Windsor Drive. 
Meppershall
•	20 August, 2.00pm – 3.00pm, Village Hall car park. 
Shefford
•	13 August, 9.00am to 12noon, High Street. 
Other dates and other locations will be published on the Bedfordshire Police website as and when they are available.

This is a message to all member in the Bedfordshire area, sent of behalf of the Bedfordshire and Luton Local Resilience Forum .

BLLRF supports the ‘What would you do if...?’ campaign which aims to help everybody living or working within Bedfordshire and Luton to be prepared and consider what they would do if faced with an emergency.

Media release

20 June 2011

  Emergency forum helps locals save water

A local resilience forum is helping locals save water after the Environment Agency recently confirmed that parts of Bedfordshire are experiencing drought.

Despite recent rain, the county is experiencing one of the driest six month periods across East Anglia, since records began. As a result the Bedford and Luton Local Resilience forum (BBLRF) is urging locals to save water by issuing tips which could saves households thousands of litres of water per year.

The forum, made up of Bedford and Luton councils, The Environment Agency and the bluelight service are asking locals to take simple measures such as not leaving the tap running when brushing this teeth, this alone can save up to six litres of water per minute which arcoss the country is enough to fill over 1,400 Olympic size swimming pools.

For more information on ways to save water and what the drought means for you visit

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/drought/default.aspx

 For information about emergency planning advice go to  http://www.whatwouldyoudoif.co.uk/

30 June 2011 
Burglar Gaoled after stealing Copper Pipes and flooding House
The owner of a house in Clifton, Bedfordshire, was horrified on Saturday 25 June 2011 when he opened his front door to find the property flooded. It was subsequently established this was not as the result of an accident, but was actually the work of burglar Jason Hill.
Two days before the owner returned, Hill had stripped the house of all the copper pipe work and even managed to steal the hot water cylinder from an upstairs airing cupboard. The value of the stolen property and the damage caused was in the region of £2000.
Hill probably thought he had got away with the crime, but the very next day, the crew of Bedfordshire Police’s helicopter were busy monitoring the activities of a white van. It drove into Hertfordshire and was stopped by police officers in Letchworth. Inside they found copper piping, curtains and a hot water cylinder. The subsequent police enquiries led them back to burglar Jason Hill who, on 29 June, was arrested and interviewed.
Hill, unemployed, aged 31 of 19 Hoover Place, Chicksands, Bedfordshire, appeared before Bedford magistrates today and pleaded guilty to the burglary and asked for five other burglaries and two thefts to be taken into consideration.
Hill was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison.
Detective Constable Surinder Ram of Bedfordshire Police’s Priority Crime Team, said, “We are committed to reducing the numbers of burglaries and other crimes in Central Bedfordshire. At the present time, we are looking at other similar offences in the Chicksands area. I would urge anyone with information to contact us.”
If you believe you can help the police enquiry, please call Police Constable Jo Barkat, in confidence, on 01234 841212, text 07786 200011, or call Crimestoppers, anonymously if preferred, on 0800 555111.



Vauxhall Wing Mirrors Flying Away in Bedfordshire  
 
Bedfordshire Police are investigating a string of wing mirror thefts across the county.
Reports have been received over the last six months of exceptionally high numbers of colour-coded wing mirror casings being stolen from cars.
The predominant targets are Vauxhalls, mostly from Bedford and Luton. In fact, 81 offences have been reported between January and June 1 this year.  Fifty three of these thefts were from Vauxhalls, with Mark 4 and 5 Astras being the most commonly stolen type.
 
“We’ve noticed a significant upturn in these type of thefts in the last few months,” said Det Con Vicky Willett, from the Intelligence Unit. “The mirror casings are not cheap to replace and because they are not marked by the manufacturers, even if we find them it’s difficult to trace them back to their rightful owners and prove they are stolen. That means the criminal could get away with the crime and continue stealing.” 
 
“We’re investigating the spate of thefts but we also really need the public’s help.  We’d like as many people as possible to write their postcode and house number on the bottom outside edge on the casing. That means we can identify the stolen parts if we arrest those suspected of stealing them,” she said.
 
We have free ultraviolet markers to give away to people to do this and they are available from    Greyfriars, Luton, Dunstable and Ampthill police stations.  The UV pens can also be used to mark all household property such as electrical items, mobile phones and bikes etc.
 
If people who would like an indelible marker which is completely unique to their household they can buy Smartwater from  Neighbourhood Watch  for a £20 fee, call 01234 275165.  



15/6/11
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please forward this message to friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents in Chicksands to stay alert for suspicious activity, after a series of metal theft have taken place.

Thefts have been reported in Eisenhower Place, and Hoover Place.
Residents have reported the theft of external Copper overflow pipes attached to the heating sytstems.
If you discover a pipe has been taken or damaged please contact the Gas Emergency Service Line, on (0800) 111 999.
We would ask all residents to check any external pipes to ensure that they have not been damaged.

We would ask residents in the local area to be aware of this incident and contact the Police if they see anything out of the ordinary.

If you have any information about these crimes, please contact the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,4,9,2,4,/2011.
Or text (07786) 200011.
Call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.
To speak to a crime reduction officer email saferhomes@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your support.



This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please forward this message to friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents in Chicksands to stay alert for suspicious activity on roofs, after a metal theft took place in Truman Place, on Monday the 13th of June.
The offence took place between 10:15 and 10:20 p.m.
The offender has pulled the copper condensation pipe from the side of the house.
The owner has heard a noise and disturbed the offender, who has run off.
We do not have any description of the offender.

We would ask residents in the local area to be aware of this incident and contact the Police if they see anything out of the ordinary.

Ways to protect metal include:

Coating with anti climb paint, which makes the metal difficult to remove. The paint does not dry and will mark clothing and skin.

DNA style property marking. Products include Smart water, Red Web, and Selecta DNA.

Check your roof regularly, the earlier it is reported the more chance there is of recovering it.

Check the perimeter of your home, bolt gates, ensure lighting is working, remove any climbing aids.

If metal is due for replacement, consider a modern alternative which is less attractive to thieves.



If you have any information about this crime, please contact the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,4,7,7,8,/2011.

Or text (07786) 200011.

Call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

To speak to a crime reduction officer email saferhomes@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your support. 


This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto any friends and neighbours.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to improve the security of registration plates, after a theft took place in Gravenhurst Road, in Campton.

The offence took place between 1:00 p.m. on the 7th and 5:30 p.m. on the 8th of June.

The vehicle was a White, N registered, Peugeot.

No attempt was made to enter the vehicle.

Bedfordshire Police recommend using one of the following methods.

Replacing the plates with Anti Tamper plates.

Replacing the existing screws with non return screws.

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,4,0,1,7,/2011.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Thank you for your support. 


This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

Residents in Chicksands are asked to be vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity in back gardens, after a theft took place in Truman Place.

The offence took place between 11:00 p.m. on the 6th and 9:00 a.m. on the 7th of June.

The offender gained access to the rear garden, and removed a set of Alloy Wheels.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to review the security of gardens and avoid leaving valuables outside.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,3,7,8,4,/2011.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.


Let’s Talk Together Community Meetings
We’d like more people from our communities to get involved with the work we do.
It’s only by listening to what our communities tell us that we can work together to make Central Bedfordshire a really great place in which to live, work, learn and travel.
Let’s Talk Together  community meetings will give members of the community and local groups the opportunity to discuss their particular issues and concerns with Councillors and  representatives from key organisations such as police, health, children/education, community safety, environment, business and volunteering to name but a few.
Shefford, Stotfold & Arlesey Meeting

Thursday 9th June
Etonbury middle School
Stotfold
Arlesey
 
7:00pm- 9:00pm
Why not come along?



This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

Residents
in Campton are asked to be vigilant, and to review the security of all
outbuildings, after a burglary took place in Greenway, on Tuesday the
24th of May.


The offence took place between 11:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.

The offender has gained access to the outbuilding at the rear of the address.

A padlock has been forced from the door, and fishing equipment has been taken.

Outbuildings,
sheds and garages can be especially, vulnerable to criminals, and are
often not the best place, to store high value items.

Always lock shed and garages, and help keep sheds secure with a good quality padlock, and hasp.

If possible anchor down items, like bikes and lawn mowers.

Consider an alarm and make sure your security lighting is covering your shed and garage.


For more information on securing your shed visit
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Shed.html
or for securing your garage visit
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Garage.html


If you have any information about this crime or other
suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234)
841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,1,7,1,8,/2011.

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011  or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Thank you for your support.





23/5/11

13/05/11

May 10 2011

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto any friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire
Police remind vehicle owners to remove all property from vehicles when
parked, after a theft took place in Gravenhurst Road, in Campton, on
Monday the 9th of May.

The offence took place between midnight and 6:30 a.m.

The vehicle was a White, W registered, Ford Transit Van.

A side window was smashed and the offender climbed through to the back of the van.

Power tools have been taken.

Please remember to remove all valuables from the vehicle when ever it is left unattended.

Remember
to remove the holder for any Satellite Navigation Systems, or Mobile
phones, and clean away any marks left on the windscreen or dashboard.

Leaving the empty glove box open will also discourage an offender breaking into the vehicle.


For more information on reducing vehicle crime visit
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Vehicle%20Crime.html


If you have any information about this crime or other
suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234)
841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,1,9,4,3,5,/2011.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011  or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.




May 9 2011
Lead Thefts Prompt New Warning 
BEDFORDSHIRE Police are repeating warnings for residents to stay on their mettle following a spate of lead thefts.
In the last four days thieves have targeted several homes in the Henlow and Biggleswade areas and stripped relatively easy-to-reach lead flashing, such as that found around bay windows.
The incidents, which happened during the day and night, follow a similar series in the Spoondell area of Dunstable the previous weekend and coincide with high scrap metal prices.
Sergeant Jon Woodroff, of the Sandy and Biggleswade Area Safer Neighbourhood Team, reassured residents that patrols are being stepped up and police are doing all in their power to apprehend the culprits.
However, householders can help by remaining vigilant, moving items that can be easily climbed and contacting police the moment they spot anything suspicious.
Sgt Woodroff said: “We want the public to be aware of these incidents so they can take the appropriate crime prevention measures and know to contact us immediately if they see anything out of the ordinary. We will not mind if a call turns out to be a false alarm.”
Ways to protect lead include:
 
•	Coating it with anti-climb paint, which makes it messy and difficult to remove. The paint is non-drying and marks clothing and skin, helping to identify offenders
 
•	Forensic marking helps identify stolen metal and trace it back to the owner. Products available include SmartWater, Red Web and SelectaDNA Grease
 
•	Check your roof regularly, since the earlier you report a theft the more chance there is of finding the stolen metal, particularly if it is marked
 
•	Regularly check the perimeter security of your home and bolt gates to the rear garden. Ensure security lighting is in good working order.
 
•	If lead or copper is due for replacement, consider modern alternatives that are less attractive to thieves.
 
Anyone with information on lead theft can contact Sgt Woodroff, in confidence, on 01234 842531, the main switchboard on 01234 841212, text to 07786 200011, or telephone Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.  To speak to a force Crime Reduction Officers telephone 01234 841212 or email saferhomes@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk.

April 6 2011
 Chief Gives Backing to ‘Street Watch’ Project 
 BEDFORDSHIRE’S new Chief Constable has publically thrown his weight behind an initiative that enables residents to organise high visibility civilian patrols in their own neighbourhoods.
Alf Hitchcock, who joined the force at the beginning of this year, has written an internet article that describes Street Watch as having “huge potential” nationally.
In a front page comment on www.street-watch.org.uk/ Mr Hitchcock says: “It is a great way for the community to work with the police and make Bedfordshire even safer.
“Street Watch is community empowerment in action and its benefits are clear – crime and anti-social behaviour prevention, reassurance and increased community cohesion.
“Street Watch has huge potential nationally and I am proud that the citizens of Bedfordshire have been so keen to form local schemes and lead the way on this.”
Mr Hitchcock spoke out as the wheels were put in motion to launch the tenth Street Watch scheme in Bedfordshire since April last year – making it one of the most successful  projects in the country.
A public meeting to rally support was held at Shillington Village Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday (March 31), just a week after another successful scheme was launched in Clifton.
Street Watch, which was originally launched in Hampshire and Surrey, involves local people taking it in turns to patrol communities in high visibility vests to provide reassurance and talk to residents.
It is emphasised they are not doing the job of police officers or PCSOs and have no more power than ordinary citizens. Instead the purpose of Street Watch is to prevent crime by increasing visibility, maintaining effective communication and reporting to police and increasing feelings of safety and community spirit.
Each scheme relies on Street Watch finding coordinators and volunteers prepared to give two hours each month and keep the national web site up to date with what they are doing and where. They also have to be vetted at the same level as police volunteers.
Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Lisa Johnson, who has helped oversee the Bedfordshire project, said: “Street Watch is a classic example of the community and police working in partnership to reduce crime and increase feelings of safety.
“In Marston Moretaine – our first scheme – we saw a 12 per cent decrease in anti-social behaviour and a six per cent decrease in overall crime between May and November 2010. While we cannot positively attribute all this to Street Watch, it is plain the scheme has had an extremely positive impact on the village.
“We would urge anyone interested in setting up a similar scheme in their area to get in touch.”
Anyone interested can contact Sgt Johnson direct on 01582 473333, through the main switchboard on 01234 841212 or email lisa.johnson@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.
The 2011 National Census took place on Sunday 27 March and people will now be returning their completed questionnaires to the census office.
 We are aware that the census may give potential distraction burglars or rogue traders an opportunity to target vulnerable people in our communities. To help prevent this, please take note of the following information and, if possible, pass it on to family, friends and neighbours:                   
•	If you have completed and returned your questionnaire promptly (ie before 6 April), you will not be contacted by census field staff.
 
•	All census staff will carry an ID card with a photo, logo and hologram, which they should automatically show to you. They may ask for name and number of residents, but they will not ask for specific details (like credit card or bank/building society details, etc – never disclose these).
 
•	If you forget to complete your form, a census collector will call to request that it is completed. Make sure you check their identity and photo to ensure they are valid. Always use a door chain when opening the door. Census staff are not required to enter you house.
 
•	Our main advice about preventing distraction burglary still applies – if you’re not sure, don’t open the door. Telephone the census helpline on 0300 0201 101 to check the identity of the census collector.
 
•	If you wish, you can request a pre-arranged appointment with a collector, via the census helpline number.
 
If you have any reason to suspect a caller is not genuine, call Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212, giving us as much information as you can. 
 Thank you for your support



This is a Ringmaster Message, from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass on the details of this message to any friends or neighbours.
March 29 2011
Stay on Mettle Against Lead Thieves 
 
STAY on your mettle against lead thieves if you are planning building work this spring.
That is the advice from Bedfordshire Police who say thieves will not hesitate to take advantage of ladders, or any other potential climbing aids, left lying around.
Chief Insp Neill Waring said the price of scrap lead is still high and reminded do-it-yourself enthusiasts and traders to ensure equipment is stored at night and access to any scaffolding is properly restricted.
Ways to protect lead include: 
•	Coating it with anti-climb paint. It does not degrade the lead, but will make it very messy and difficult for a thief to remove. The paint is non-drying and marks clothing and skin, often helping the police to identify offenders
 
•	Forensic marking helps identify stolen metal and enables police to trace it back to the owner. It has resulted in the successful conviction of thieves. Products available include SmartWater, Red Web and SelectaDNA Grease
 
•	Check your roof regularly. The earlier you report a theft the more chance there is of finding the stolen metal – particularly if it is marked
 
•	Regularly check the perimeter security of your home or site. Limit access, particularly for vehicles, but maintain the natural surveillance provided by neighbouring premises or routes
 
•	Consider security lighting, CCTV and roof /drive alarms.
 
•	If lead or copper is due for replacement, consider modern alternatives that are less attractive for thieves.
 
Chief Insp Waring said: “Spring is one of those times often earmarked for building work involving the use of ladders, scaffolding and other equipment.  
“Most project managers and builders are extremely security minded but with the price of lead so high we would just like to remind everyone, including the DIY enthusiast, about the importance of removing at night, or protecting, anything that could be used as a climbing aid. 
“Double-check all materials and tools are securely put away after work, rather than left on site or in the back of a van, and that tools are security marked with a product like SmartWater. Today all prisoners who come into our custody suites are routinely scanned to establish whether they have come into contact with it. 
“Bedfordshire Police are doing all they can to deter lead theft and residents can help by keeping an eye on building sites and contacting us if they see anything suspicious.”
For further information and crime prevention advice, contact Bedfordshire Police Crime Reduction Officers on 01234 841212 or email saferhomes@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk. For information about theft contact police, in confidence on01234 841212, text to 07786 200011 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111
Thank you for your support.
 


This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in Central Bedfordshire. Please forward to friends and neighbours in the area.
March 15, 2011
 Central Bedfordshire Motorcycle Warning
 
Police in Central Bedfordshire are urging local residents to double check their garages and outbuildings following an upturn in break-ins.  This follows four burglaries over the last week of which all involved the theft of motorcycles.
The first incident happened at a house in Streatley Road, Sundon at 8.10am on Saturday (March 5).  Offenders forced a lock to gain entry to a garage and stole a yellow and white off road bike and lawnmower, they then made off in a vehicle.
A second incident happened in Station Lane, Millbrook between 11.30am and 1.30pm on Tuesday (March 8). Offenders forced a garage door and removed a red Honda XR125 and a quad bike.
A third incident in Luton Road, Chalton took place between 11pm on Tuesday (March 8) and 8.15am Wednesday (March 9).  The offenders used bolt cutters to force entry into a garage and stole two motorcycles and a quad bike.  A motorcycle and quad bike were later discovered abandoned in a nearby field.
A final incident in Drakeloe Close, Woburn took place between 4pm on Thursday (March 10) and 11.30am on Friday (March 11).  A Thumpstar mini motor was stolen after the offenders forced access into a garage.
Chief Inspector Neil Waring said: “We would like to remind people that keeping motorcycles secured and in a safe place, even when in an outbuilding or garage, can help prevent thefts. Ensure your motorcycle is secured at all times with a steering lock and a quality disc lock or U-lock.”
Owners can also deter theft of their motorcycle by:
 
•	Fitting an alarm and electronic immobiliser and consider a tracking device depending on your machines value.
 
•	Ensure your motorcycle is secure at all times.  Always chain your motorcycle to something fixed and keep the lock raised high so it cannot be broken by someone hitting it against the ground.  Always use a lock even when being stored in a shed or garage.
 
•	Security mark as many parts of the motorcycle with your postcode or registration number.
This will also increase your chances of getting it back if it is stolen.
 
•	If you have an off-road bike, you can get DVLA to register it on their database.  They will need your name and address, and the frame and engine numbers.  This will make it easier for police to return your bike to you if it is stolen.
 
•	Buyers beware, if you are buying a second hand motorcycle or even parts, be very wary of anyone offering you a bargain.  Make sure the registration documents match up with the motorcycles Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and check the history.  This is a small charge, but well worth it.  If you purchase a stolen bike, you will be unlikely to get your money back.
 
 
Anyone with information about these burglaries can contact Bedfordshire Police on 01234 841212, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.
As you may be aware, the English Defence League (EDL) have given notice of their intention to hold a demonstration in Luton Town Centre, on Saturday 5th February.
Subsequently anoth organistation, Unite Against Fascism (UAF), which is opposed to EDL, gave notice that they intend to hold a demonstration in Luton Town Centre on the same day.
Below is a link that contains a leaflet  about the day and also a texting service that is being provided by Bedfordshire Police, to keep residents and businesses informed.
If you would like to receive text messages about this event, please text the word
POLICE to 88020
The registration message will be charged at you standard rate.
All texts sent to you by the Police will be free of charge.
Thank you for your support.
LINK [County_Luton_Shop_Visitors_Leaflet.JPG]

14/1/2011

Bedfordshire Police Authority is keen to know your views on the Police budget.

Like most public sector organisations, Bedfordshire Police is facing a cut in its budget over the next four years.

In order to help us understand how the Police service should be delivered in the future, we need to hear what your priorities are.

The survey will only take 10-15 minutes to complete and your views will help to shape policing in Bedfordshire.

The survey closing date is Monday 24^th January 2011.

Thank you.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3P8SCX6

22/12/10

This is a Ringmaster Message, from Bedfordshire Police.

21/12/10

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford, Stotfold and Arlesey, Safer Neighbourhood Team.

LINK [County_Stotfold_Surgeries.pdf]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

3 vehicles have been reported stolen whilst defrosting, on the morning of Monday the 29th of Novemer.

The first was taken from Epson Close, in Lindslade, at 8:15 a.m.
The vehicle had been left unattended, with the engine running to defrost.
Crime reference, J,D,/,4,9,7,8,8,/2010.

The second went from Keysoe Road, in Thurleigh, at 8:45 a.m.
Again the vehicle was taken whilst it was defrosting.
A witness described the offender as a White male, in his 30s with brown hair, longer at the back. He wore a grey or blue hooded top.
Crime reference, J,H,/,4,9,8,0,2,/2010.

The third was taken from Stonely, in Cambridgeshire, just over the border from Pertenhall in North Bedfordshire, at 9:30 a.m.
The driver was at the back of the vehicle at the time working.
The keys had been left in the ignition.

Bedfordshire Police remind vehicle owners to leave sufficient time to stay with the vehicle whilst it is defrosting.

It is an offence to leave a vehicle running with no driver in the front.

Many insurance companies may not pay if the vehicle is left insecure with the keys inside.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html

If you have any information about these crimes or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using email
Reply using our website






This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Mill Lane, in Campton, on Monday the 1st of November, between 8:15 a.m. and 8:55 p.m.

The offender has cut a padlock of the rear gate.

French doors at the back of the house have been forced open.

A messy search took place but it is not yet known if any property has been taken.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,4,5,6,2,1,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using email
Reply using our website

20th October 2010.
It has been reported that the some of thr wood sculptures at Campton Plantation have had grafitti sprayed on them.  If you have any information as to who may be reseponsible for this please contact Shefford Police 01234 842567 

Shefford Neighbourhood Team Autum newsletter


This is a Ringamster Message sent of behalf of Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board.
Does Prison work? 
Can Community Sentencing be more effective?
Hear the facts and put your questions to a local Magistrate and a Probation Officer.
Let them give your community group an interactive presentation called ‘Local Crime: Community Sentencing”

It's free, takes about 1 hour and gives you a chance to have your say!
For more details, contact Mary Sung at Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board on mary.sung@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk or 01234 716348.
www.cjsonline.gov.uk/bedfordshire.
Mary Sung
Communications Officer
Bedfordshire Criminal Justice Board
Reply using email
Reply using our website


This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

A bicycle was stolen from Taft Place, Chicksands, Shefford, between 6:30pm on the 19th, and 8:00am on the 20th September.

Offenders have removed a purple Raleigh mountain bike which was left insecure in an open porch.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

Over 1700 bicycles were reported stolen in 2009 in Bedfordshire. Secure property in gardens in a shed or garage. If you have to leave your bicycle unattended, secure it with a good quality lock or bike chain to an immovable object, such as a lamppost.

for more advice on bicycle crime reduction visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Push%20Bikes.html 

You could also consider property your marking your bicycle.

view the piecing together property crime page for more advice http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Property%20Marking.html 

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately. If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, JD,/,3,9,3,6,5,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011

or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using email
Reply using our website


20th September 2010

This is a Forecourt Watch issued by Ringmaster, Bedfordshire Police.
Flitwick Tesco Filling Station fuel theft.
LINK [County_Tesco_Filling_Station_Flitwick_200910_FCU.pdf]
Thank you for your support.
Reply using email
Reply using our website



This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

Three vehicle crime incidents have taken place in the Henlow Lakes/Old A 5 0 7 area, off Arlesey Road. 

Many of the victims are from the surrounding villages.

One
took place between 7:05AM, and 8:00PM, one between 7:05AM and 1:30PM,
and one between 7:30AM and 6:00PM, all on the 13th August.

In
all three incidents offenders have climbed underneath a vehicle, and
cut the pipes attaching the catalytic converters, and made off with
them.

The associated crime reference numbers are JD,/,3,3,7,3,9,/2010, JD/,3,3,8,2,4,/2010, and JD/,3,3,8,0,4,/2010.

Bedfordshire
Police is requesting information relating to sightings of any
suspicious activity or vehicles around the time of the incident.

If
you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents
or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and
quote the crime reference number. Alternatively text your message to
(07786) 200011

 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

Reply using email

Reply using our website

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

A theft has taken place in Hoover Place off Ampthill Road, Chicksands, Shefford, between 3:00AM on the 3rd, and 5:00PM on the 11th August.

Offenders have gained entry to the outside of the location, and managed to apply pressure, and bend the copper piping away from the property. 

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, JD,/,3,3,5,0,1,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using email
Reply using our website


This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.
Look Out For Distraction Burglars
Bedfordshire Police are warning elderly people to be on the look out for a pair of distraction burglars after three similar incidents in Dunstable, Barton-Le-Clay and Bedford.
On 31 July at around 11am in Chiltern Road, Dunstable, two offenders knocked on the door of the victim, an elderly blind man, and told him that a large tree in his garden needed cutting down. They asked him to go into the garden with them so they could describe the problems it is causing. While at the bottom of the garden one of the offenders has searched the house. The two men have then left saying they would return on another day to do the work. The victim has then discovered that cash, cheque book and documents had been stolen.
On 3 August at around 11am in Granville Street, Bedford, two men told the elderly victim that they would replace his loose guttering at the rear of his property. The victim has allowed the men into his house and shown them around. The men have left saying they will return in half an hour. When they have gone the victim has discovered money has been taken. In this case one of the men is described between 20-30 years old with fair hair, wearing light coloured sleeveless top and light coloured trousers.
On the 7 August around 11am Dunstall Road, Barton Le Clay offenders have attended the property and the victim has let the offenders in who have offered to cut the hedges. They have engaged the victim in conversation, and have removed money. The offenders have left in a small grey car. One offender was described as male, around 5 foot 7 inches tall, white, around 35 years old, fat, and had a local accent.
PC Ron Callender, investigating, said: “People should be wary of people calling at their homes offered to do work for them at low prices. They should not let strangers into their homes or leave them unattended. If anyone has any information about these burglaries or has suffered a similar theft they can contact me or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Follow this advice to protect yourself against distraction burglaries:
•	Always ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in - if you are worried, ask them to wait outside while you close the door and call their company.
•	If someone keeps you talking on the doorstep, be aware of any movement or activity in the rest of the house - before you answer the door, you should check all back doors, patio doors and windows are close and preferably locked.
•	Mark all your valuables with your house number and postcode - contact your Crime Reduction Team for more information.
•	Never keep a large amount of money in the house - keep in the bank or post office.
•	Don't keep your chequebook and cards in the same place - a thief could use the card to forge your signature on cheques.
•	Don't fall for anything that sounds too good to be true - a free holiday, cash prizes, cures for arthritis or cancer, or low-risk high-return investment schemes.
•	Don't buy goods or services from doorstep callers and NEVER let them into your home.
If you have any information about these crimes or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk
Thank you for your support.




This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

A criminal damage incident took place in Truman Place, Chicksands, Shefford, between the 22nd, and the 26th July.

Offenders have accessed the garden, via climbing over fencing. Once inside the garden, offenders have removed 2 cycles, and taken them out the garden gate. Offenders have left the ramp nearby.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, JD,/,3,1,5,0,6,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.




[Reference: 26/07/10 A212 Priory Rd Campton burglary]
This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Garage Burglary took place Priory Road, in Campton, between the afternoon of the 21st and the evening of the 22nd of July.

The door to the garage has been left unlocked.

A garden mower and a chain saw have been taken.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

Outbuildings, sheds and garages can be especially, vulnerable to criminals, and are often not the best place, to store high value items.

Always lock shed and garages, and help keep sheds secure with a good quality padlock, and hasp. 

If possible anchor down items, like bikes and lawn mowers. 

Consider an alarm and make sure your security lighting is covering your shed and garage.

For more information on securing your shed visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Shed.html or for securing your garage visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Garage.html 

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,3,0,4,9,5,/2010.

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using our website



[Reference: 13/07/10 Streetwatch Shefford Email]This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team.
Dear All
 
Some of you may have heard of ‘STREET WATCH’ a scheme run by the community for the community,  this scheme is about walking your area in pairs as good citizens and to help take responsibility for your local area by dealing with low level issues that impact most on your community.  The purpose of ‘Street Watch’ is to create and maintain a caring and cohesive community by reducing opportunities for crime and increasing prevention awareness. 
 
Your Safer Neighbourhood team and Acting Inspector would like you to attend a presentation evening about this scheme which is being held at Shefford Fire Station, Ivel Road, Shefford on Wednesday 28 July, 2010 at 7.15pm.  At this presentation you will be informed about ‘Street Watch’, its purpose and how it can help reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour and more, there will then be time for any questions that you may have.
 
If you are aware of anyone who you believe may be interested in this scheme, family members, friends, resident associations or Neighbourhood Watch schemes and they live in Shefford then please feel free to ask them to come along on the 28 July. 
 
This scheme is for the community of Shefford at this time. We look forward to seeing you at the presentation evening.  To help us with numbers it would be appreciated if you could email or telephone if you will be attending. This includes any neighbours, friends, family members who you know would also be interested and wanting to come along. 
 
I look forward to seeing you on the 28 July, 2010. 
 
Kind Regards

PCSO 3660 Leigh Iddon
On behalf of the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team

Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk
Telephone - 01234 842567.
 
To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit:
http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/default.htm
Reply using our website
 



[Reference: 30/06/10 A212/Faith watch campton metal theft]
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

A metal theft took place at the parish church, in Rectory Road, in Campton, on the 29/06/2010, at 9:50 a.m.

The offender has entered the church yard and climbed onto the roof of the church.

A witness has seen 2 offenders jumping down from the roof and run to a near by back garden.

The Police were called, and the Force Helicopter was deployed.

The area was searched and 2 suspects were detained and arrested.

Metal had been taken from the roof.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents who live near to, or regularly visit church buildings, to be vigilant.

Any suspicious activity near churches, especially people on roofs, should be reported immediately to the Police Control Centre.

For more crime reduction advice relating to reducing crime at places of worship visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Watch%20Faith%20-%20Crime%20Reduction.html 

If you have information about this crime, please call (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,6,8,2,2,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Thank you for your continued support. 
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk
 


[Reference: 30/06/10 A228/A212 Gravenhurst Rd suspicious incident]
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

A resident in Gravenhurst Road, between Campton and Gravenhurst, has reported a suspicious incident.

At 3:30 p.m. on the 29/06/2010.

The resident returned home to find a man in the back garden.

Later after the man left the garden the resident noticed washing missing from the garden.

The male was white, wearing pale blue jeans and a black or grey T shirt. He wore canvas style trainers and was carrying a small green rucksack. He rode a Blue Raleigh push bike.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html

If you have any information about this incident, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote URN 107 for the 30th of June.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


[Reference: 29/06/10 SNT Sandy/Shefford Arrests]
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

DETECTIVES investigating a number of burglaries in Shefford and Gravenhurst have, on the direction of the Crown Prosecution Service, charged three men. 

Jamie Peck, born 29/03/1978, of Aldgate, Sandy, was charged on Saturday (June 26th) with three counts of burglary. 

Richard Bettles, born 30/01/1975, of Drove Road, Gamlingay, was charged on Saturday (June 26th) with two counts of burglary.

Damien King, born 14/04/1990, of Fairground Way, Clifton, was charged with on Saturday (June 26th) with one count of burglary.

All three men appeared at Bedford Magistrates Court Monday, June 28th.

The charges follow an investigation by members of Dunstable CID into a number of burglaries in Shefford, Gravenhurst, Sandy and Arlesey since the beginning of June.

Bedfordshire Police is committed to the fight against burglary. Anyone with information about it can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 200011.

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


Attempted theft of metal from All Saints Church

On the morning of Tuesday 29th June (during prayer meeting) lead and copper piping were stripped from All Saints' Church.  The offenders (two men) were distrurbed, one was seen running off down Greenway and through a garden at No. 16 into the field behind. They were pursued by a dog handler and the Police helicopter.  

If you have any information please contact the police.




Theft of metal from Campton School

Metal was stolen from Campton School in the early hours of Friday (4th June) morning.

Previous thefts of lead being stolen from the school have also occurred on Thursday 17th December 2009 and Wednesday 12th May.

If you have nay information please contact the police.


[Reference: 28/06/10 A212 Metal Burglary Mill Lane Campton Shefford]
This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Mill Lane, Campton, Shefford, between 1:20, and 1:30 in the morning, on the 25th of June.

An offender has accessed the location, via an open gate at the front. The offender has then climbed through, onto a flat roof at the rear of the property. The offenders have then removed all the visible copper piping from inside the location. 

The offender were seen getting in a blue Ford Orion, registration J 4 6 3 R T F, and made off towards Campton at speed.

The vehicle contained 3 to 4 other occupants.

Summer Crime Reduction Advice. http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

Many Burglaries can be prevented. Keep doors and windows locked at all times. Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass. Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area. If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, JD,/,2,6,3,4,7,/2010. Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011

or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111. Contact Ringmaster on (01234) 275288 or email Ringmaster@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk or a free property marking kit. visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html#changeClass5 for property marking advice 

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

[Reference: 17/06/10 Ridesafe assessments for Motorcyclists]
This is a Ringamster Message sent on behalf of the Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Reduction Partnership.
Invitation to all Motocyclists
You are invited to get your riding assessed for FREE with a Bedfordshire Police Advanced Motorcyclist to get expert and impartial feedback on what you do well and where you may be able to could improve your skills. 
This is part of the Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Reduction Partnership’s ‘Motorcycle Training Matters’ initiative to reduce the casualty toll amongst motorcyclist. One in four serious injury road traffic collisions involves a motorcyclist. Some are due to rider error, and some are due to other road users’ errors. In either case, we believe that better, defensive riding skills will help reduce motorcyclists’ risk of being involved in a collision.
Find out more or book a place call Alison in Roads Policing on 07787 704716 or visit www.MotorcyclingMatters.org/RideSafe/.  
 
RideSafe dates: 
Kempston 20th June
Luton 4th July
Kempston 8th August 
Kempston 3rd October
Caryl Jones
Communications Manager
Bedfordshire and Luton Casualty Reduction Partnership
PO Box 412
Bedford
telephone: 01234 716335
Mobile: 07766 161587
www.DriveSafely.org
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



Reference: 17/06/10 Central Beds Nuisance motorcycles]
June 10, 2010
Op Meteor Continues Clamp Down on Riders
POLICE continue to clamp down on dangerous and anti social riders. The operation to target the illegal use of off road bikes and nuisance vehicles will continue throughout the summer.
Members of the Dunstable, Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard Safer Neighbourhood Teams have been out and about clamping down on nuisance motorcycles.

Officers recently carried out another Operation Meteor initiative and found themselves issuing 8 section 59 notices, a fixed penalty notice for driving elsewhere than on a road and seizing an off road bike.

Police warn that Operation Meteor will continue in Dunstable, Houghton Regis, Sundon, Barton, Caddington, Totternhoe and Leighton Buzzard together with other areas of mid-Bedfordshire to ensure those off road bikers who upset local residents and put themselves, families, walkers and horse riders at risk by using local footpaths and bridleways are stopped.

Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant, Darren Turney, said: “Members of the community can help by continuing to report any incidents they witness to the police.

“We will continue to use all resources at our disposal to apprehend people involved in this type of anti-social behaviour. If people are going to break the law, we will take action. People who continue to use their bikes illegally will see it seized and possibly destroyed.”

Anyone who knows who the offenders are can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text 07786 200011.
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


[Reference: 27/05/10 SNT Shefford/VP burglary]
This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Higham Road, in Higham Gobion, between the 22nd and the 25th of May.

It is possible that the offender entered the house through an insecure ground floor window.
Some Jewellery has been taken from the house.

2 days earlier, the owner had been visited by 3 males who have offered to carry out building work on the front wall.
The 3 white males, in a car, took a large aount of cash from the resident, and demolished the old wall.
They claimed that they would order materials and return to rebuild the wall.
They have not returned to finish the work.

The men are white, one in his 50s with a heavy build, and 2 younger males.

We have not other details of this group of males, the vehicle that they were driving or the ocmpany that they work for.

Were you visited by these men looking for building work, did you see their vehicle?

Summer Crime Reduction Advice.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Summer.html 

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote crime reference, J,D,/,2,1,5,4,6,/2010.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Contact Ringmaster on (01234) 275288 or email Ringmaster@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk or a free property marking kit.

visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html#changeClass5 for property marking advice 

Thank you for your support. 
Reply using our website
 
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk




STOLEN - 22/10/10 

Red Ride-on lawnmower stolen from Greenway.

If you have any information please contact the police on 01234 841212
or e-mail me

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Please could I ask you to be good
neighbours to All Saints? 

 It seems that metal theft is back on the
agenda.  We are not expecting any works to be done to the church in the
near future so anyone on the roof (apart from people you will recognise) is
there without permission.  If you see anyone, please call 999 straightaway
& report then let me (816108/ 07946 731922, work 01234 716348 or Kathy.Taylor@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk)
or Sue (811849) know.

Reference: 13/04/10 Shefford Rural Crime Map]

This is a Ringmaster Message, from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass on the details of this message to any friends or neighbours.

Crime Maps are available on the Bedfordshire Police website. This will give you an idea of the level of crime in your area in relation to other areas in the county and whether crime levels are falling, static or rising.

You can also view crime levels by type including by burglary, robbery, vehicle crime, violence and anti-social behaviour.

Crime Maps are updated once a month.

Please follow the link: Shefford Rural

To view Crime Maps for other area visit visiting the Local Crime Mapping website: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/crimemaps/crimemaps.htm

Reply using our website

[Reference: 14/04/10 Vehicle Crime Reduction]
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.
 
Did you know, in a 4 week period, the following has been stolen from vehicles in North and Central Bedfordshire:
•	27 bags plus contents     
•	27 sat navs
•	2 cameras
•	5 sets of keys
•	10 mobile phones
•	4 tax discs
•	3 mp3 players
•	9 car stereos
•	18 bank cards
•	4 items of jewellery
•	7 driving licences
•	2 passports
•	Over £1300 in cash
Over half the incidents of car crime are “opportunistic”.  Vehicles with property on show are more likely to be broken into because thieves will risk setting off an alarm if there is an obvious pay-off.  Even a carrier bag or a coat on the back seat is attractive to a thief as it may contain items of value.  By the time the thief has realised there is nothing of value, your vehicle has already sustained damage which may be expensive, inconvenient and time consuming to repair.  Items with your personal details – such as letters, bank statements, etc – also leave you at risk of identity fraud.  In order to assist us in reducing the risk of vehicle crime, we ask that you take these simple steps:
•	Never leave the keys in the ignition and store them out of sight when at home.
•	Engage the steering lock and activate the alarm.  Close the windows/sunroof, and lock the doors and boot.  With remote control central locking, ALWAYS double-check you car is secure by testing the door handle
•	Only take what you need on your journey – whenever possible, leave personal and valuable items at home.
•	If you must take valuable items with you, keep them out of view and take them with you when you leave the vehicle – even if you think you will only be a minute.  It only takes a few seconds to break into a car.
•	Satnavs are currently being targeted – keep them out of sight (think about property marking them), remove the cradle and wipe away the sucker mark on the windscreen.  Consider leaving the glove box open to show there is nothing in it.
•	Remember to remove your stereo fascia – this is the best way to make your stereo unattractive to thieves.
•	Even small items like loose change and a packet of cigarettes are an incentive to the opportunist thief.
•	It’s better to store items in the boot at your point of departure, not the point of arrival – you don’t know who may be watching.
For more advice on protecting your car and property, please contact the following Crime Reduction Officers:
•	Bedford Borough: Greyfriars Police Station 01234 275273
•	Central Bedfordshire: Dunstable Police Station 01582 473178
Bedfordshire Police have been running the VPV (Vulnerable Property in Vehicles) scheme across J Division for  the 2 weeks (29th March – 11th April).  
Staff have been taking note of vehicles that have been made vulnerable either being left insecure or having property on display.  Registered owners will then receive a letter with crime reduction advice.  Over the Easter holidays, particular attention will be paid to beauty hotspots and visitor attractions.
Thank you for your support.
Reply using our website




[ - Bedford - *26/02/10 SNT Shefford Newsletter]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Please find below a link to the latest copy of a newsletter produced by the Shefford, Safer Neighbourhood Team.

If you wish to make contact with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team their details are below.

Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk 

Telephone - 01234 842567.

To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/default.htm

Have your say and let your SNT know what you feel are the priorities in your area by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org and clicking on the 'Neighbourhood Priorities' tab.

Newsletter LINK [Bedford_shefford_newsletter_spring10.pdf]
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/go.aspx?id=351



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=fd7e0b3d-32c4-4d8d-81a2-204ebb983730&email=-1&web=-1



[ - Bedford - 25/02/10 Shefford SNT CAPS Event]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team SNT.

An operation CAP's event is being held by you local SNT, on March the 13th 2010 between 2:00 and 4:00 in the afternoon on the Bilberry Road Estate, Clifton.

Your SNT and trained volunteers will be armed with a portable toolbox containing everything needed to secure number plates.

{ visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Opcaps.html for more information 

Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk }

Contact your SNT by Telephone on 01234 842567.

{ To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/default.htm

Have your say and let your SNT know what you feel are the priorities in your area by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org and clicking on the 'Neighbourhood Priorities' tab. }



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=50bd7717-dee2-4813-b4bc-14149faba989&email=-1&web=-1


[ - Bedford - 02/02/10 Shefford Property Marking Event]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Please come along and visit local Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator Kay Fariss, and myself for some free Crime Prevention advice.  Security code your personal possessions with Smartwater or use our Security Marking Kits.

The event will be held on the 13th of February, Shefford Farmer's Market, High Street, Shefford S G 1 7 5 A X between 9:00 in the morning and midday.

For more information contact with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team.

 { Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk 
Telephone (01234) 842567.

For more events in your and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/teams/cb_shefford.htm  }


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=0c1c1062-59b2-414a-86fc-cc6e308c69a2&email=-1&web=-1

[ - Bedford - 04/01/2010 Bedfordshire Police Face Book Page]

This is a Ringmaster Message, from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass on the details of this message to any friends or neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police Facebook site.

Join the official Bedfordshire Police Facebook site to keep up to date with what is happening across the Force in an informal, quick and easy way.

The site is proving to be a positive tool with which to engage with members of the public, as social networking sites become ever more popular. 

Since the site has been live it has already attracted nearly 600 'fans'. To date it offers information on a range of topics including public and road safety, the police dogs, police award winners, PCSOs, knife crime, wanted people and officer and cadet recruitment.

Anybody thinking of joining the official Bedfordshire Police Facebook site can expect crime prevention and campaign video clips, links to other sites which may be of interest, contact information, and a discussion forum for the opportunity to share views on current issues, how the site can be improved and anything else the fans want to share.

You can access the site via the force site 

www.bedfordshire.police.uk and click on the Facebook icon or go direct to 

www.facebook.com and search under Bedfordshire Police.

Many thanks
Helen

Helen Hutchinson
Internal Communications Officer
Bedfordshire Police Headquarters, Woburn Road, Kempston, Bedford  MK43 9AX
01234 842253
helen.hutchinson@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=66be075f-2189-4216-84b2-1461b76ef59d&email=-1&web=-1



[ - Bedford - 29/12/09 Property Marking SNT Countryside Watch]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team and Mid Bedfordshire Countryside Watch members.

Shefford SNT is holding a Crime Reduction and property marking event, in conjunction with Neighbourhood Watch and Shefford Town Council. It will be held at Sheffords Farmers Market, on Saturday the 9th of January from 9:00 in the morning, to midday.

Please bring along your new Christmas presents including electrical items like mobile phones and push bikes.

The engraver will also be available to mark power tools, lawnmowers and other tools.

For more information contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team on (01234) 842567 { or email SNT.shefford@Bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk 

To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/default.htm

Have your say and let your SNT know what you feel are the priorities in your area by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org and clicking on the 'Neighbourhood Priorities' tab. }



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=130f7e25-c87f-4875-8455-1e86dbd4b19f&email=-1&web=-1



[ - Bedford - 23/12/09 Shefford SNT Meppershall distraction]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. 

If you live near to an elderly, or vulnerable person, please take the time to think about who might be calling at their home.

A Distraction Burglary has taken place in Orchard Close, in Mepershall, in the last 2 days.

The elderly victim is very distressed and not able to remember when this crime has taken place.

2 females, have called at the Elderly resident, claiming to be visiting relatives.

They have been allowed into the house, and a purse has been taken.

Bedfordshire Police are urging all residents to be extra vigilant, and to consider the safety of elderly residents in their street.

Sadly these offenders target the elderly, tricking their way into homes.

Becoming a Nominated Neighbour, can help to protect vulnerable residents, and send a strong message to would be Burglars that people in the street are watching.

For more information on becoming a nominates neighbour, please call (01234) 275273

{ For advice on door step security and to find out more visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Door%20Step%20Security.html }

If you have any information about this crime or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote U R N of the 23rd of December.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=d6e6cb2a-3ec6-41e4-9639-14ef4d40886a&email=


[ - Bedford - 16/12/09 Distraction Allert]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. 

If you live near to an elderly, or vulnerable person, please take the time to think about who might be calling at their home.

2 elderly residents in Bedfordshire appear to have been visited by the same man, claiming to be a new neighbour.

The man has called at an address in ,Luton Road, in Wilstead, at 12:30 today.
He claimed to be the son of a new neighbour and is invited into the house.
Whilst in the house, he has managed to unlock the back door, and keeps the elderly female talking.
It seems that nothing has been taken from the house.

A man with a similar description called at an address, in Clophill Road in Gravenhurst, just after 12:30.
Again he claimed to be a new neighbour, and was allowed into the house.
Property has been taken from the home.

The man is described as a white male in his late teens to early 20s, 5 foot 8 with a slim build, with black hair, wearing a beige top, blue jeans.

We are asking all residents that have elderly neighbours to be on the look out for this man.

We have no details of his vehicle.

It is likely that a second offender may be working with him.

Please take the time to pass on this information in your area, and prevent other vulnerable, or eldery people becoming victims.

Bedfordshire Police are urging resident to become nomintated neighbours.

This gives the elderly or vulnerable resident the choice to not answer the door to a stranger, but direct them to a neighbour.

Anyone interested in more information about becoming a nominated neighbour should contact a crime reduction officer on

(012340 275273, or (01582) 473178.

If you have any doubts about a stranger at your door, do not let the person in and dial 9 9 9.

{ For advice on door step security and to find out more visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Door%20Step%20Security.html }

If you have any information about theses crimes or other suspicious incidents or crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, and quote U R N 1 3 5 for the 16th of December.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=f7f9db70-e786-4f02-9848-6c53a2e55ffe&email=-1&web=-1




[ - Bedford - 12/12/09 Winter Crime Reduction]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

December is a traditionally busy time for most people, but can also offer opportunities for criminals. Here are a few things to take into consideration, which may reduce the likely hood of becoming a victim of crime.

Remove property from view in your vehicle. This includes presents and coats.

Dont advertise your property. This includes presents left under your Christmas tree, especially if you leave your curtains open. 

When shopping, ensure your bag is shut and dont leave wallets or mobiles in your back pocket where they can be easily targeted.

If you are going away, ask a trusted neighbour to make your house look occupied, by removing mail and newspapers, taking in your bin, opening and closing curtains, and even occasionally parking on your drive.  Timer switches linked to lights or radios can also help make your house look occupied.

Secure your outbuildings with good quality locks and hasps. Criminals may consider outbuildings as easy targets, and often use tools found sheds or gardens to break into homes.

Get a copy of the Home Office burglary pack, which contains useful information about securing your property. 

You can order your home pack by calling (0800) 4561213 and quoting burglary pack.

{ View the Burglar Reduction video featuring a Bedfordshire Crime Reduction Officer http://www.bedfordtoday.co.uk/video.aspx?VideoPath=BTJ/how%20to%20homesafetyjp%20settings.wmv&VideoID=41337&ArticleID=5677955 }

{ More Crime Reduction tips http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Winter.html }

Lastly, ensure any suspicious activity is reported to the Police on (01234) 841212 or if a crime is in progress dial 999.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=734f4191-e10f-46b7-9291-0f9135223279&email=-1&web=-1



[ - Bedford - 02/12/09 Cold Calling Warning]

This is a Ringmaster message, from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police have received a large number of calls from residents throughout the County, relating to a company offering, free, crime reduction surveys.

They are claiming to be working in partnership with the Police, and make offers of, free alarm systems.

Bedfordshire Police do not endorse any surveys, that are undertaken by private companies, selling home security products.

This and other companies may make reference to recent crimes in the area, and will offer to book an appointment, to make a free survey of your home.

Often high pressure sales techniques are used to convince the resident to make an appointment, and then to buy expensive alarm systems, with even more expensive maintenance contracts.

Please do not accept an appointment from any company that, cold calls you, either over the phone, or at the doorstep.

If you wish to purchase Home Security Products, you can approach a number of registered compaines through the Trading Standards, Approved Traders scheme.

Ensure that you obtain a number of written quotes, and do not pay any money in advance of the work being completed.

A list of local registered traders, can be obtained from Trading Standards on (01234) 228228.

{ or from their web site www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved  }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=13e435cd-4456-43e5-b9c2-1373fcac959f&email=-1&web=-1


[ - Bedford - 26/11/09 A212 Burglary Greenway Shefford]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

An attempted Burglary took place in Greenway, Campton Shefford, between 4:00 in the morning, and 12:15 in the afternoon.

An offender has approached the front of the house, and made a hole, using an implement, in the front left hand window pane. The offenders have then made off, possible after being disturbed.

{ The clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable.  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, JD,/,4,8,0,9,8,/2009. 

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

{ 
For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=efeb5943-9074-412c-be4e-d0bfccd80083&email=-1&web=-1


[ - Bedford - 24/11/09 A212 Elm Cl Campton Burglary]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Elm Close, in Campton, on Monday the 23rd of November, between 7:00 in the morning, and 7:00 in the evening.

The offender has gained access to the rear garden, and forced open a patio door.

The house was searched, and a large amount of jewellery, and cash was taken from the house.

{ The clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable.  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds,


[ - Bedford - 23/11/09 Elderly Distractions Warning]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. 

In the 3 day period from the 19th to the 21st of November, 7 Distraction Burglaries have been reported.

On Thursday the 19th crimes took place in Stevington, Great Barford, Willow Road Bedford, and Manton Lane Bedford.

On Friday the 20th crimes took place in Stofold, and Potton.

On Saturday the 21st a crime took place in Mount Drive in Bedford.

All but one have taken place, after dark, and have involved elderly victims.

On 4 occassions the offenders have claimed to be from the Police or Fire Brigade.

A number of victims have been forced to show the offenders where cash is kept in the house.

Bedfordshire Police are asking all residents to take the time to consider the safety of Elderly neighbours or relatives.

We are asking you to take an active intrest in any visitors calling apon elderly neighbours.

Details of suspicious vehicles near to their homes.

Take the time to call on your neighbours.

Do they have a door chain and viewer, are they using it when they answer the door.

Bedfordshire Police offer a Nominated Neighbour Scheme for elderly neighbours. This is designed to direct all unknown callers to a registered neighbour.

Any one who is interested in becoming a Nominated Neighbour,can contact a Crime Reduction Officer on either (01234) 275273, or (01582) 473178.

{ For advice on door step security and to find out more visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Door%20Step%20Security.html }

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=c3ab91ec-6063-47d3-aa16-5dcbe097a33a&email=-1&web=-1




[ - Bedford - 17/11/09 A212 Burglary Metal Ampthill Road Sheffor]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Ampthill Road, Shefford, between 2:30, in the afternoon, on the 15th, and 7:45 in the morning, on the 16th of November.

Offenders have approached the location, and gained entry to the yard. Offenders have entered an insecure building, and removed a quantity of scrap metal. It is believed that the offender, left via the gate.

{ The clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable.  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, and/or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, JD,/,4,6,7,4,0,/2009.

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk } 

{ For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.




To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=a34c0961-005e-48e5-b9de-2e8d9007bcc9&email=-1&web=




[ - Bedford - 13/11/09 MId Beds Distraction Warning]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

BEDFORDSHIRE Police are warning villagers in Mid Beds, to be on their guard against distraction burglars, posing as water officials.

It follows an offence at 4pm on Monday the 9th of November, in the High Street, in Greenfield, where a con artist called at the home of a woman in her 80s.

He said he was a water worker and needed to turn off her taps, but while he kept her talking downstairs an accomplice slipped upstairs, and removed some money.

It is possible the offenders were taking advantage of news about a programme of water works, in the Mid Beds villages that runs until the 20th of November.

Bedfordshire Police are reminding elderly people to use a spyhole and door chain, when ever they answer the door.
Insist on seeing identification from callers. 

If in doubt, dial 9 9 9. 

Also remember to keep side gates and back doors locked.

Relatives and neighbours can help by keeping an eye on the elderly, and reminding them that genuine officials will not mind providing identification if asked.

Anyone with information about distraction burglars can contact police, in confidence, on (01234) 841212, Crime stoppers, anonymously on (0800) 555 111 or text to (07786) 200011.

{ The clocks have gone back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

{ For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html}

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=18800d6e-0626-4528-aee5-23eba5117d24&email=-1&web=-1




[ - Bedford - 16/10/09 Halloween Message]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

Ghosts and spooks should be the only scary things about Halloween, but unfortunately some people spoil it for others.
It can be an anxious time for residents, especially the elderly and people who live alone, so Bedfordshire Police is taking a firm approach to those people who cause problems for others. 

Shopkeepers have been asked to use their common sense when selling eggs, or flour to young people.

Schools have been visited by officers who have spoken to students, to make them understand that some people may be frightened and intimidated by what they may perceive to be fun.

You do not have to open the door, or respond to knocks on the door on Halloween. 

If there are any problems, or incidents outside your house, and you are concerned they can ring police for advice or assistance. 

The Police Control Centre can be contacted on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. 

Thank you for your support.

Window Poster:
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/trick%20or%20treat%202007.pdf

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/halloween%20poster%201.pdf

Egg and Flour Poster for retailers:
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/halloween%20poster%202.pdf

LINK [Bedford_Firework_Safety.pdf]
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/go.aspx?id=235

LINK [Bedford_halloween_games.pdf]
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/go.aspx?id=236

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=4b860bd5-e886-4377-9079-12b26bd6561e&email=-1&web=-1


[ - Bedford - 16/10/09 Fraud Auction Site Email Only]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

An incident of fraud has taken place in Bedfordshire.

The victim was selling an item on an online auction website, and once the auction had ended, received 3 emails which the victim thought were from a legitimate money transfer site, stating that the money had been transferred.

These emails were not in fact from a legitimate source, and the victim has posted the item believing the item had been paid for.

The online money transfer site has confirmed a fraud has taken place.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

{ The clocks go back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable.  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

{ For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html}

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, JD,/,4,2,1,5,0,/,2009. 

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=e80f3e4c-763c-4555-9ac4-312b39549aad



[ - Bedford - 25/09/09 A212 Burglary Priory Gate]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

An attempted Burglary took place in Priory Gate, off Ampthill Road, Shefford, between 6:00 in the evening, on the 23rd, and 11:30 in the morning, on the 24th of September.

Offenders have entered the rear garden, and used an implement to attempt to force open a rear patio door. Access has not been gained.

{ The clocks go back and the nights are drawing in - don't let yourself and your property become vulnerable.  http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html to find out more. }

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, JD,/,3,9,3,5,7,/2009. 

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

{ 
For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=869536ad-0cf6-49a8-87aa-7475497e076f&email=-1&web=-1


[ - Bedford - 03/09/09 Mid Robbery Astwick Road Stotfold Hitchi]

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto any friends and neighbours.

A robbery has taken place in a commercial garage, Astwick Road, Stotfold, Hitchin, between 1:30, and 1:45 in the morning, on the 3rd of September.

Two offenders have approached the location in a blue van. The first offender has knocked on the window, and asked for directions to Shefford. The offenders have then barged in the location, and taken tills and a safe. The offenders have emptied the safe, and taken a holdall carrier bag. The offenders have taped the victim to a chair, while the searched the property. The offenders made off in the blue van.

The first offender was described as male, 6 foot tall, Asian, around 23 years old, medium build, and wore a black tracksuit bottoms, hoody, a base ball gap, and white trainers.

The second offender was described as male, 6 foot 5 inches tall, white, 23 years old, heavy build, wearing a baseball cap, dark tracksuit bottoms, and a dark hoody.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

{ Wish you were here? - Keep security in mind while you are away this summer http://www.safer-beds.org to find out more. }

{ For more information on reducing crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Introduction.html}

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,3,6,2,2,9/,2009. 

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=ff3c51b6-44c1-4cf5-8d5d-b1cf34f732ca&emai



[ - Bedford - 26/08/09 All Residents Distraction Press release]

This is a Ringmaster Message, from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass on the details of this message to any friends or neighbours.

August 25, 2009

Quick-Thinking Pensioner Foils Burglars

POLICE have praised a quick-thinking pensioner who foiled distraction burglars by insisting on identification and shutting the door when they could not produce it.

Two men met their match at 11.30am on Thursday (August 20) at a property in Church Street, Ridgmont, where they told a man in his late 70s they needed to turn his water pressure down because of nearby boiler work.

However, the victim was immediately suspicious and asked for identification and their employer's details. When they refused, he said he was calling the police and shut the door.  

The offenders, who fled empty-handed, were white, aged about 20, 5ft 9ins tall, stocky and one wore a dark blue or black long sleeve jumper and dark bottoms.

Burglary Reduction Officer, PC John Shiels, said: "Our advice is to always use a spy hole and door chain, insist on identification and, if it is not forthcoming, to shut the door and dial 999.

"This gentleman did exactly the right thing by insisting on ID and calling us. He made it absolutely plain he knew their story was rubbish and it left the offenders completely wrong-footed." 

At around 1.30pm the same day two men called at a rear door in Bideford Green, Leighton Buzzard, and told a woman in her 80s they needed to turn down the water pressure.

The men, who claimed they were fitting washing machines nearby, fled empty-handed when she caught one of them rifling through a bureau.

But at 2.15pm a woman in her 80s from Lordsmead, Cranfield, was less lucky when two men posing as water workers duped their way into her home. The offenders, described as white, about 23 and slim, searched bedrooms and made off with a sum of cash.

Burglary Reduction Officer, PC John Shiels, said: "As part of our Safer Homes campaign we are asking families to help police by constantly reminding elderly relatives to beware of cold-callers.

 "We are also looking for more people to join our Nominated Neighbour Scheme, meaning elderly residents simply give cold-callers details of a neighbour they should approach first."

Anyone with information about burglary can contact police on the main switchboard on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 2000 11.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=420fc951-859c-43c1-9d93-4f0250ad



Neighbourhood Watch

[ - Bedford - 10/08/09 Ampthill A Doggie Day Out Mid Beds]

This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police.

A DOGGIE DAY OUT with fun for the whole family

View: http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/ampthillfunday.pdf   98kb.

Ampthill Rugby Club on Sunday the 23rd August 2009, between 10:00 in the morning to 3:00 in the afternoon.

Funds for Dogs for the Disabled in partnership with Bedfordshire Police

Come, meet and ask questions of your new local Policing
Team, and other members of the force.

Specialist Stands with everything for your dog.

For further information please contact Kathy Stone (01234) 302956.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=e25acef3-ee26-40f0-a5cf-552633a0af93&email=-1&web=


[ - Bedford - 04/08/09 NHW Co-ordinators Google Maps Email]

This is a ringmaster message on behalf of Bedfordshire Police.

Have you come across any recent burglaries or attempted burglaries where the perpetrators were either proven or suspected of using Google Street View to locate their targets?

For each case, please provide a) the date of the crime b) the location (please be as precise as you can be) c) the age of the offenders d) what was taken e) if any weapons were used and if so, what weapons f) how Google Street View was used, or suspected of being used g) the outcome of the case thus far.

Please send all responses to Kevin.Sharp@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=78580424-ce57-4503-8e4f-671d1c769bb0&email=-1&web=-1



[ - Bedford - 23/07/09 Mid Beds Suspicious Alarm Company]

This is a Ringmaster message, from Bedfordshire Police. 
Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police have received a number of calls from residents in the Mid Bedfordshire area, who have been cold called, by a company claiming to sell house alarms, that are linked to the Police.

They have asked to make appointments to visit the house.

During a number of calls the company have claimed to be working with, or for Bedfordshire Police, claiming that other alarm systems are not supported, or that the police will not attend their crime if they do not use this system.

Bedfordshire Police to not advertise or promote any private companies, and offer a free home visit for any resident who has concerns about their security.

We recommend that residents do not make appointments as a result of a cold call, and should obtain quotes from a number of registered compaines before chosing to buy an alarm.

Bedfordshire Police offers the following advice.

Never buy goods, or services at the doorstep or over the phone.

Ask a friend or neighbour to recommend a company.

Do not pay any money, until you are happy that the work has been completed to a good standard.

A list of local registered traders, can be obtained from Trading Standards on (01234) 228228, or from their web site www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=b6144af1-dabb-436b-9c0d-09b747630c19&email=-1&web=-1

[ - Bedford - 09/06/09 Mid Beds Cold Callers]

[ - Bedford - 13/07/09 Insecure Vehicle warning]

This is a Ringmaster message Bedfordshire Police. 

BEDFORDSHIRE Police are asking motorists to help reduce car crime this summer.

Recently a number of owners have arrived at their vehicles, often after leaving them on the drive overnight, to find them insecure and property missing - most victims are adamant that they locked the car. 

Crime Reduction Officer, PC Peter Spicer, said: "Often when we leave our cars we simply press the key fob to automatically lock the door. It's quick and convenient but how often do we make sure the car is secure? If the battery in your key fob is low, you press the wrong button or are simply out of range the locks - and therefore the alarm - may not be set. Lock your car while you are close to it, watch the hazard lights activate and / or listen for that distinct sound of the locks applying. Why not take the time to try the door handle just to make sure and, of course, never leave anything in the car that might tempt a thief."

PC Spicer added: "It will hopefully be a long hot summer and many of us will be packing the car for day trips and extended holidays. Don't be tempted to pack the car the day before, the computer games or DVD player that entertains the kids on the long journey are rich pickings for a thief if left in the car - either prior to leaving, on arrival or even at a stop off en-route. 

"Our advice to motorists is to leave everything of value at home unless you absolutely need it. If your car is broken into it could mean weeks of inconvenience and unwelcome expense."

Motorists are urged to: 

? Lock doors and ensure that windows and sunroofs are shut. 
? Physically check that the doors are locked.
? If you have an alarm, or other security devices, use them.
? Park in a well used location that is well lit during hours of darkness.
? Never be tempted to leave bank cards, sat navs or mobile phones in the car.
? Don't assume that by putting valuables in the boot they will be safe - thieves could be watching.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=2059f559-6cb5-432e-afaf-c150fd8b0b31&email=-1&web=-1


This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.
We have recently received an increasing number of cold calling incidents reported throughout Mid Bedfordshire, involving companies offering security services and products. 

In many cases a company has been using high pressure tactics.
Dont feel pressured into buying or paying for services at the door. 

Although Bedfordshire Police recommend alarm systems as an effective crime reduction tool, it is recommended high value purchases should be considered carefully, and quotes obtained from 2 or 3 companies in order to get the best deal. 

Ask friends and neighbours where they obtained similar services, or products or contact Trading Standards Approved: (01234) 228280 { or visit the website at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved }
Trading standards has designated the whole of Bedfordshire a No Cold Calling area, and incidents of Cold Calling can be reported directly to trading standards.
For security concerns contact the Crime Reduction Officer who will be able to provide free and impartial advice. 

{ For more information visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Door%20Step%20Security.html and view the NO COLD CALLING ZONES section of the page. }

Thank you for your support.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=60ba17a9-0621-4082-abdb-e1f85144f0c



[ - Bedford - 20/05/09 Cold Calling warning]

This is a Ringmaster message, from Bedfordshire Police. 

please pass the details of this message onto any friends and neighbours, in the area.

Bedfordshire Police have received a number of calls from residents in the Central Bedfordshire area, relating to cold calling by charities.

In each case a caller to the house has asked the owner to provide bank details as part of the donation.

Although we have no evidence to suggest that these callers are not genuine, we would remind residents to check ID.

If you believe that the caller is not genuine, please do not provide them with any money or personal details and call the police immediately.

Bedfordshire police offers the following advice.

Never buy goods or services, as a result of a cold call from a company, over the phone.

If you are interested in a product ask for a number that you call back, when you have had time to think about the offer.

Never disclose personal details over the phone, like bank account numbers, maiden names, or dates of birth.

Cold Calling can be reported to Trading Standards on (01234) 228897.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=68f5e8


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - *03/04/09 SNT Shefford Newsletter]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Please find attached the latest copy of a newsletter produced by the Shefford, Safer Neighbourhood Team.

If you wish to make contact with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team their details are below.

Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk 

Telephone - 01234 842567.

To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/neighbourhood_teams/default.htm

Have your say and let your SNT know what you feel are the priorities in your area by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org and clicking on the 'Neighbourhood Priorities' tab.

Attachment:
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/go.aspx?id=12

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=9faa4a97-2a3f-4d73-bd8c-15fa8630d327&email=-1&web=-1


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 02/04/09 A heart Felt Thankyou]

This is a message to all members of the Ringmaster Messaging Service from Divisional Commander Chief Superintendent Andy Street.

Dear Ringmaster Member

I would like to thank everybody who lives and works in the Division, for your efforts over the last 12 months. 
As a division we have seen a significant increase in the rate of detected crime, up by 7% over the year.
However, not only did we detect all these additional crimes but we have seen a continued reduction in recorded crime;

Burglary Dwelling - DOWN 2%
Robbery - DOWN 10%
Theft of Motor Vehicle - DOWN 16%
Theft from Motor Vehicle - DOWN 12%
Criminal Damage - DOWN 17% 

Overall a reduction of 9% and this is following on from a previous year which saw reductions! 

I am proud of the team that has achieved these results.
I also acknowledge that the hard work of Watch Scheme Members in the community has had an important role to play in this success. 

Of course, we can't rest on our laurels' and we have some significant challenges ahead, not least to repeat this level of performance, but if we continue to reduce crime and detect more we will be providing the quality Policing Service the people of Bedfordshire deserve.

My personal thanks to you all. 

Andy Street
Chief Superintendent
Divisional Commander



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=a19b2c09-e5ef-4ad8-a740-514add299ead&email=-1&web=-1

[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 25/03/09 NHW Quarterly Meeting]

This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Bedford and District Neighbourhood Watch. Please pass the details of this message to other members of your group.

The next Neighbourhood Watch Quarterly Meeting, will take place on Thursday the 16th of April, at Bedfordshire Police Headquarters, in Woburn Road, Kempston.

Refreshments will be available from 7:00 in the evening and the meeting will start at 7:30.

The guest Speaker will be Kevin Burraway, from Ace Security.

To book your space or offer apologies please contact Lynne Arch on (01234) 275165.{ or email lynne.arch@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk }

{ Visit the Neighbourhood Watch section of the Safer-Beds website at http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/NHWWatch%20-%20Intro%20Revised.html }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=9ce51905-b9c0-4796-95ad-10731846afe3&e

[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 04/03/09 Cold Calling Zones]

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

We have recently received an increasing number of cold calling incidents reported throughout Bedfordshire. In a number of cases they have been genuine businesses, using high pressure tactics to sell their services or products.

Trading standards has designated the whole of Bedfordshire a No Cold Calling area, and incidents of Cold Calling can be reported directly to trading standards.

There is a lot of confusion and misunderstanding surrounding the No Cold calling scheme so here are a few pointers to help make some sense

No cold calling zones are not legally enforceable and callers do not break any law at the first point of contact (They may do so if they are allowed to progress).

The scheme is designed to notify traders that they are likely to be challenged or turned away, and to remind householders that they can say no, and should not consider it rude to do so.

Many callers will be genuine but you should consider whether you would have bought their product if the caller, often using highpressure tactics, had not called.

Dont be panicked into buying or paying for services. If your roof really does need attention the chances are it will wait another 24 hours, while you get your own quotes, and find out if its really necessary. 

Most high value purchases should be considered carefully, and quotes obtained from 2 or 3 companies in order to get the best deal. Ask neighbours where they obtained similar services, or products or contact Trading Standards Approved: (01234) 228280 { or visit the website at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved }

For security concerns contact the Crime Reduction Officer who will be able to provide free and impartial advice. 

{ For more information visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Door%20Step%20Security.html and view the NO COLD CALLING ZONES section of the page. }

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=c29a1756-152c-4650-8e15-8bc3b74f053a&email=-1&web=-1




[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 23/02/09 212 Burglary Shefford]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place in Rectory Road, Campton, Shefford, between 8:45 in the morning, on Saturday the 21st, and 12:40 in the morning, on Sunday, the 22nd of February.

Offenders have gained access to the side of the house, and used a flat bladed based implement, to attempt to force open the side door, causing damage. This attempt failed, so offenders have then forced open a small side window, allowing entry. Offenders have then climbed through the window, gaining access, to the house. A search was conducted, and then offenders made off with several items, including ipods, cash, and a jewellery box.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,7,4,0,0,/2009. 

Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk }

{ 
For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=805bae87-053a-4435-ae9c-fad29a262be5&email=-1&web=-1

[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 29/01/09 212 Burglary Campton]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place in Gravenhurst Road, Campton, Shefford, between 11:50 in the morning, and 8:25 in the evening, on the 28th of  January.

Offenders have gained access, to the rear of the property, and have forced a wooden framed window, and have removed items from the window sill, in order to gain entry. Offenders conducted a search, and removed a small beige safe, containing cash, jewellery, and other document. A laptop was also taken. Offenders have left via the entry point, leaving a yellow handled hammer underneath the window, which does not belong to the victim.


Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, and/or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

{ For more information concerning garden security visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Garden.html }

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.
If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,0,3,9,5,9,/2009.
Alternatively text your message to (07786) 200011 { or email your message to chc@Bedfordshire.pnn.Police.uk } 

{ For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html 
Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.
Thank you for your support.
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=923a7205-c30d-4f84-a242-a3374866b26d&email=-1&web=-1


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 19/01/09 A212 Campton Burglary]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place in Brookside, in Campton, overnight on the 15th to the 16th of January.

The offender climbed over a fence to access a building to the rear of the house.

A side door was forced open, and a number of high value garden power tools were taken.

On the same night a door of a cottage was jemmied open in Mill Lane.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Your boundaries are your first line of defence against criminals.

Always secure garden gates, keep fences and wall in good repair and consider defensive planting, and/or trellis.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof, access a first floor window or access neighbours garden.

{ For more information concerning garden security visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Garden.html }

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,2,0,6,5,/2009. 

{ For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=525ae9d4-3cb7-4356-bbda-e02b86935528&email=-1&web=-1



[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 08\01\09 Choosing an Alarm All Email ]
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

There have been reports of alarm companies' cold calling and then using high pressure sales and scaremonger tactics, to sell their product although the companies are legitimate.

Nationally police will not attend every monitored alarm activation without first indentifying whether it is genuine and not a false alarm. This is usually done by a visual or audio verification or sequential verification (where more than one alarm sensor is triggered). 
The fire service does attend any fire alarm notification - often even after being advised that it's a false alarm.
When choosing an alarm:
.	Word of mouth recommendation: Check with a friend or neighbour who has an alarm - they will be able to tell you whether their system works well and whether they obtained value for money.
.	Get two or three quotes in order to compare price but also service
.	Check the Trading Standards Approved website at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved or call on 01234 228280
.	Look for NACOSS or NSI approved traders
.	At the time of your quotes ask about police response (reputable companies will automatically make you aware of the national policy). You will also find it on the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) website or you can ask your local Crime Reduction Officer.
.	Don't be pressured into buying an alarm. If you've managed till now you will probably be okay for another week or two while you obtain alternative quotes.
Thank you for your support.
To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk
To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=16ee8949-2dbd-411c-95c4-015ea2693443&email=-1&web=-1
To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=7a23ea0d-40c9-400e-afc0-464a91a2e6a9&email=-1&web=-1


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 31/12/08 Shillington Robbery]

This is a ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

Shillington Robbery - Did YOU See Offender in Field?

DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a woman was robbed as she crossed a field to go to a shop.

It happened between 1pm and 1.10pm yesterday (Tues, Dec 30) when a woman in her early 50s used a bridal way that runs between Marshalls Avenue and Bury Road in Shillington.

As she crossed the field an offender ran up behind her, grabbed a purse from her hand and ran off. The victim suffered slight knee and back injuries as she fell to the ground, but did not need hospital treatment.

DS Steve Facer, investigating, is keen to speak to anyone who saw the offender, who was white, aged 15 to 16, about 5ft 10ins tall and wore a grey hooded top. He also wants to speak to anyone who comes across a dumped black purse with a pop stud.

He said: "Although the woman wasn't seriously hurt this was a shocking incident and we are keen to speak to anyone who knows who is responsible.

"Among those who may have seen something are dog walkers, horse riders or those simply out and getting some air over the festive period."

Anyone with information can contact DS Facer, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text  07786200011.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=7a23ea0d-40c9-400e-afc0-464a91a2e6a9&email=-1&web=-1


The night of 18/19/12/09

There were a number of attemped break-ins in the area. In one, a gate was opened and a cat door was forced open. In another the offenders were disturbed and the police were called.


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 11/12/08 SNT Shefford Newsletter]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Please find attached the latest copy of a newsletter produced by the Shefford, Safer Neighbourhood Team.

If you wish to make contact with your local Safer Neighbourhood Team their details are below.

Email - snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk 

Telephone - 01234 842567.

To view your local SNT team, events and priorities visit: http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/safer_n/default.htm

Have your say and let your SNT know what you fell are the priorities in your area by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org and clicking on the 'Neighbourhood Priorities' tab.

Attachment:
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/attachments/Bedford_shefford_december_08.pdf

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 09/12/08 Christmas Crime Email]

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Christmas Crime

10 Tips for reducing Crime this Christmas.

When you leave your house

1.Although the tree looks lovely in the window, don't leave the lights on and curtains open when you go out - and don't leave presents under the tree!
2.After Christmas, dispose of boxes and packaging carefully - don't leave them on the roadside or on the top of the wheelie bin.
3.Use timer switches to operate lights and radios tuned to a talk radio station in the house when you are out. If you have a house alarm, use it.
	
Out and about

4.Don't leave any items on display in your vehicle. A coat or a shopping bag may encourage an offender to break your window, and take a better look.
5.Don't leave bags over the back of your chair and keep wallets and purses close to your body to make it more difficult for the pickpocket.
6.Take care at the ATM - be wary of people standing too close for comfort - try and use an ATM inside the bank.
	
When you're at home

7.Strangers at the door - genuine delivery personnel usually have uniforms and liveried vehicles and should not need to come into your home.
8.Charity collectors will have identification and will not be offended if you ask to see it. If you are not sure but want to make a donation, ask whether these can be made in other ways, perhaps through a bank.
9.If in doubt do not open the door, ring a neighbour or even the police.
	
Mark your property

10.There are now more ways than even to security mark your property. UV pens, and other products such as SmartWater and Selecta DNA should be used and are only visible under UV light. Items such as bicycles and lawn mowers should have your postcode etched into the body/frame.

For more information on reducing Winter Crime visit 

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Autumn.html

Give the gift of Security this Christmas 

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Christmas%20Wish%20List.html

Have a safer and happy Christmas and thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=c3eeb37c-3a8e-4ebc-9bf2-00f6feb1c7cf&email=-1&web=-1


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 28\11\08 212 Burglary Dwelling]

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place in Ampthill Road, Shefford, overnight between the 26th, and the 27th of November.

An offender has used an implement to force open the ground floor, rear French doors, and has entered the location. A tidy search has been conducted, and a wallet, a computer and other items were taken. Offender have then made off.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,5,1,8,5,6,/2008. 

{  Are you ready for Winter?  Visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Seasonal%20Winter.html for winter crime reduction advice.
For more information on reducing burglary related crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Buglaries.html }

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=34648899-bc05-449d-9c29-f56e51f8c1c6&email=-1&web=-1



[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 21/11/08 Mid Beds Suspicious vehicle]

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police have reciveived a number of crime reports that make reference to a suspicious vehicle at the scene.

In each case the vehicle is described as a Blue, Ford Transit, Style Van.

This vehicle has been linked to 2 crimes in Moggerhanger,and  2 crimes in Clophill in the Mid Beds area and a vehicle crime in Cardington in North Beds.

In each case the witness has not been able to obtain the index number of the vehicle.

The vehicle seems to have been linked to vehicle crimes in car parks, in one case it appears that the vehicle was in the area for some time before the offence took place.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report any possible sightings of this vehicle immediately.

If you have any information about this vehicle, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=0fcb71dc-cac7-4148-bc47-ba384405bcc0&email=-1&web=-1


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 12/11/08 Mid Beds Suspicious caller]

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Mid Beds area.
Please forward the details of this message onto any friends or neighbours in the area.

Bedfordshire Police have received a number of reports of a suspicious male, calling at addresses in the Mid Beds area.

The most recent call came from a resident in Woburn Sands.

The caller is described as a black male, speaking with a South African Accent.

He claims to be from a Utility company, but does not say who.

He claims that he can offer cheaper prices for Utilities, but needs to see copies of gas and electric bills, and also asked the resident to complete a direct debit form, including bank account details.

Bedfordshire police offers the following advice.

Never buy goods or services, as a result of a cold call from a company.

If you are interested in a product ask for a number that you can call back, when you have had time to think about the offer.

Never disclose personal details like bank account numbers, maiden names, or dates of birth.

Cold Calling can be reported to Trading Standards on (01234) 228897.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=2c0c2474-8686-4b87-86f9-6bf22dd54f9e&email=-1&web=-1



[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 10\11\08 CAPS Event Mid Beds Email]

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

As part of Bedfordshire Polices ongoing effort to reduce number plate thefts, a number of operation CAPS events will be held throughout mid Bedfordshire.  At these events you will have the opportunity to get your number plates secured, making them more difficult to remove. 

Currently we are unable to secure plates that are stuck on but all vehicle owners can receive vehicle crime reduction advice.

You can view the times and locations of CAPS events, as well as other community events, on the 'Community Event Calendars' found by clicking a tab at http://www.safer-beds.org

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/images/comeventscalendarloc.gif

Please circulate this message to friends, family, neighbours, and Ringmaster members who only receive phone messages. 

Let us know if you are aware of, or are organising any events that would be suitable for promoting on the safer-beds calendar.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.


[Safer Beds Community Web Site - Bedford - 10/11/08 Shefford Vehicle]

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto friends and neighbours, in the area. 

A vehicle was stolen from Lucas Way, in Shefford, overnight on the 9th to the 10th of November.

The vehicle was a Red, 0 3 registered, Vauxhall Astra.

The safest place to park a vehicle is inside a locked garage.

Park in well lit streets, and check that the vehicle is correctly locked every time.

Remove all property from the vehicle when parked.

Vehicle owners should consider improving the security of registration plates by 1 of the following methods. 

Replacing the plates with Anti Tamper plates. 
Replacing the existing screws with non return screws. 
Attending a vehicle crime reduction event where the police will secure the plate free of charge. 

{ For more information on reducing vehicle crime visit http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Crime%20Reduction%20-%20Vehicle%20Crime.html }

If you have any information about these crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. 

Thank you for your support.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=6bfd367c-9de4-4b91-9f28-c38df67b1913&emai

27/10/08

SAFER Neighbourhood Teams across Bedfordshire will be stepping up patrols over the Halloween and bonfire night periods.

The warning comes from Bedfordshire Police who emphasise while they do not want to spoil anyone's fun, they will not tolerate criminal or anti-social behaviour.

Police still get complaints about Halloween pranks going too far, such as eggs and flower being thrown at properties and residents. The elderly in particular, feel intimidated by large groups of noisy trick-or-treaters calling at their homes.
Please find attached a link to 2 documents that you may find useful, during the Halloween Weekend.

The first is a poster designed to discourage trick or treat callers to the house.

Double A5 Version: http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/trick%20or%20treat%202008.pdf

A4 Version: http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/trick%20or%20treat%202008%20A4%20window%20card.pdf

The second is some basic advice for parents that are planning to allow their children to go out Trick or Treating.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Halloween%20Poster%201.pdf

Please take the time to look at both and circulate to any friends or neighbours who may find them useful.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=a6fb19d9-7317-4dca-9535-bf4f732f4f8b&email=-1&web=-1

26/10/08

This is a message to all members of the Bedfordshire Police Ringmaster Messaging Service.

A new web site has been developed to compliment the email messages that we send you.

The address for the web site is

www.safer-beds.org

The site includes more detailed Crime Prevention Advice which you can use to protect your Home, Vehicle, or Business.

On this site you will also find information about all of the Watch Schemes that we offer, as well as information about events, and local news.

If you have any information about any local events or meetings that will be taking place in your local community please send us the details and we will add them to the calendar.

If you have any comments or suggestions about how the site could be improved in the future, please let us know.

Information, or comments can be sent to

ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


Thank you for your continued support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

25/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

An attempted Burglary took place in Rectory Road, in Campton, between Saturday the 27th of September, and Wednesday the 22nd of October.

The has gained access to the side of the property by walking up the main front driveway.

A side door to the house has been damaged, but no entry was gained and no property was taken.

Bedforshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to review the security of their homes.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,4,6,8,0,9,/2008. 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=3a766f8f-8968-46a2-b1b3-650a8042388c&ema
23/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

2 burglaries have been reported in the Campton area.

Both crimes took place in Greenway.

A Garage Burglary took place in Greenway, overnight on the 21st to the 22nd of October.
It appears that no property was taken from the garage.
Crime reference, J,/,4,6,6,5,9,/2008.

A burglary took place in Greenway, on Thursday the 23rd of October, between midnight, and 7:15 in the morning.
The offender had broken a single glazed window at the front of the house. A lock on the window was then forced to gain entry to the house.
The offender removed a number of items from the house, and used the owners front door keys to get out of the house.
Crime reference, J,/,4,6,6,3,5,/2008.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about these crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=19882f3f-24dd-4b77-b615-0dd998c99d30&email=-1&web=-1

20/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

Bedfordshire Police is appealing for witnesses and information after officers were called to reports of a ram raid at a Potton Service Station in Biggleswade Road, Potton, at 1.30am Sunday Morning 19th October 2008. Click on the link below for more information.

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/PottonRamraid.pdf

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=82cc869f-9870-4653-baa1-162efabc5699&email=-1&web

Potton Service Station Ram Raid Appeal
Bedfordshire Police is appealing for witnesses and information after officers were called to
reports of a ram raid at a Potton Service Station in Biggleswade Road, Potton, at 1.30am
Sunday Morning 19th October 2008.
The offenders, using a stolen yellow JCB digger, attempted to steal an ATM machine by
attaching special heavy duty straps to it in order to drag it out but were disturbed when
officers patrolling in a marked police responded to calls to the BP garage.
The offenders made their escape in a dark coloured estate car with a taxi sign on its roof
and sides. In doing so they rammed the marked police car before driving off. The car had
false number plates on it and police are still trying to trace the car. The JCB and another
vehicle, a Mitsubishi L200 silver pick-up, were left at the scene. The JCB was stolen from a
farm in Eyeworth some time earlier.
DC Hazel Taylor, from Bedford CID is investigating and is appealing for anyone who may
have seen the offenders before or after the offence, or people acting suspiciously near the
garage in days leading up to the ram raid, to contact the police.
It is believed there were between four and six offenders involved, all of whom wore masks.
Anyone with information should contact DC Taylor on 01234 275285, Crimestoppers,
anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text 07786 200011.
Bedfordshire Police are asking the public to look out for JCBs or other large mechanical
equipment that may be parked up in strange places, in case they are being monitored for
use in other crimes.


17/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

Have your say and fill out the online form at www.safer-beds.org, and let your Safer Neighbourhood Team (Local Police officers and a partnership of local agencies) know the 3 three key issues that are affecting your community. This will help a Joint Action Group in establishing policing priorities for your local area and identify other agencies that could assist in implementing the initiatives. 

Please be specific about what, where and when things are happening as this will help to target the response.

When you visit www.safer-beds.org, click on the tab labeled 'Neighbourhood Priorities', and fill out the form provided (more information is available on the right hand side of the page). We can also mail the forms to those that don't have internet access. Please let us know if you have any problems.

Thank you to those that have filled out the priorities form already.

We value your support and hope that by working together we can really help to improve the quality of life for residents and for those working and visiting the area.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=aba8a3c8-de51-41e6-a6eb-af1cb5b6e099&email=-1&web=-1


13/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

Please click on the link below to for a full list of events taking place in Bedfordshire between Monday 13th, and Friday 17th of October, for Not In My Neighbourhood Week (content over several pages).

http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/Not_in_my_Neighbourhood_Oct_2008 Mid.pdf

Your Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) would like to know the top three issues you want your Safer Neighbourhood Team to focus on tackling, in your area. You can do this by visiting http://www.safer-beds.org , and clicking on the Neighbourhood Priorities tab on the, and filling out the form provided.

Please inform friends and family (whether or not they receive Ringmaster messages) so they to can inform their SNTs of their top 3 priorities.

We value your support and hope that by working together we can really help improve the quality of life for residents and for those working and visiting the area.

Your Safer Neighbourhood Team appreciates your support and time.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=4e547d2f-15a6-4fb4-a4ce-b5a58b411e4d&email=-1&web=-1




10/10/08
This is a Ringmaster message to all members in the North, Mid and South Bedfordshire area.

The following information is taken from a Press Release issued by Bedfordshire Police.

Week Marks the Neighbourly Way to Fight Crime!

BEDFORDSHIRE Police will next week (Oct 13 to 17) throw its weight behind a national initiative that celebrates how communities can pull together to make their neighbourhoods even better places to live.

'Not in My Neighourhood Week' is a Home Office backed week of activity that raises awareness of work by local agencies and residents to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. 

In Dunstable police are supporting an action-packed initiative by South Beds Community Safety Partnership called 'Pride in Downside' that not only runs from October 11 to 20 - but between October 27 and November 3 as well.
The programme kicks off between 11am and 4pm this Saturday (October 11) with a residents' association-led family fun day on Mayfield Road Green where entrance, and the vast majority of attractions, are free.
Other Pride in Downside events include property marking, children's sports and dance days, dog micro-chipping, a coffee morning for the elderly, high profile policing and a Halloween and Firework Safety evening at Morcom Road flats between 5pm and 8pm on October 30.

Safer Neighbourhood officers are supporting an event by North Bedfordshire Community Safety Partnership at Church Lane shops, Goldington, Bedford between 3pm and 6pm on Wednesday (October 15).
The highlight is an "Action Plan Activity Launch" to further combat anti-social behaviour and crime. There will also be marquee displays, free bicycle and phone marking, tamper-proof number plate screws and other goodies.

Between 10am and 4pm the same day officers will be security marking bicycles in Bedford town centre and having a word with those caught cycling in pedestrian areas. 

That evening Mid Beds Community Safety Partnership is inviting Neighbourhood Watch co-coordinators to Mid Beds District Council offices at Chicksands to swap good practice, share ideas and unite under the future Central Beds authority. Over 40 people are expected, though more coordinators are always needed.

Safer Neighbourhood Teams in Leighton Buzzard and rural North Beds are marking the week with a wide variety of road safety and crime reduction initiatives, which include property marking and fitting tamper-proof screws to number plates.


In Clapham and Oakley residents are invited to a Neighbourhood Watch launch in Clapham village hall between 7pm and 10pm on Tuesday (October 14). 

A similar event will take place between 2pm and 8pm on Thursday (October 16) at Sovereigns, Crown and Heron Quays and Poulter Close in Bedford.

Anyone interested in joining Neighbourhood Watch can find details at www.safer-beds.org. Anyone with information about crime can call 01234 841212, in confidence, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Thank you for your support.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=f3f03202-3d43-4c62-b9a9-164


08/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Garage Burglary took place in Greenway, in Campton, overnight on the 5th to the 6th of October.

The offender forced entry to the garage.

The offender removed a site on mower worth 2000, a second lawn mower, a petrol strimmer, a petrol hedge cutter, and a chainsaw.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,4,4,2,4,1,/2008. 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=d445dbed-6018-4e0e-b9ba-9dba2b632079&




04/10/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place at a secluded property in Gravenhurst Road, in Campton, on Friday the 3rd of October, between 8:30 in the morning, and 3:00 in the afternoon.

The offender smashed a pane of glass in a side door to gain entry to the house.

A laptop and some cash was taken from the house.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,4,3,7,7,4,/2008. 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=cfd81531-3990-4c0a-b583-dacb01ec799e&

25/09/08

This is a Ringmaster Message to all vehicle owners in the Mid and South Bedfordshire area, from Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass the information in this message onto any friends or neighbours in the local area.

During the last few weeks there has been a noticable increase in the number of crimes in the area, where the vehicle has shown no signs of a forced entry.

In many cases the owner believed that they had locked the vehicle.

Bedfordshire Police would ask drivers with Remote Central Locking, to physically check a door handle, to ensure that the vehicle is locked.

Remove all property from the vehicle and removing any marks left by Mobile phone and Satellite navigation system, holders.

Consider leaving the empty glove box open so that a potential offender can see that no property is in the vehicle.

The best way to prevent vehicle crime is to park the vehicle in a garage.

Thank you for your support.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=ab253fbe-415a-4d8c-b06d-d97a8bcc66c1&email=-1&web=-1



23/09/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

The Autumn version of Watch Wide News is now available. You can find it by following this link http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/rm_desktop/files/NHWWatch%20-%20Watch%20Wide%20News.html

It is also available at http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk under CRIME and then under PUBLICATIONS.

Thanks to Brendan Murray, South Beds Neighbourhood Liaison officer, editor of Watch Wide News.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=efa71e41-682b-4790-8f89-7a5f41fe0d0d&email=-1&web=-1

Shefford Neighbourhood Team August Newsletter



22/09/08

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

A vehicle crime took place in Elm Close, off of Rectory Road, overnight on the 21st to the 22nd of September.

The vehicle was Black, P registered, BMW.

The offender removed 2 wheels from the vehicle, using a jack and a vehicle battery to prop up the vehicle.

The steering wheel was taken from the inside of the vehicle, and a set of golf clubs were taken from the boot.

Bedfordshire Police remind vehicle owners to remove all property from vehicles when parked.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,4,2,0,7,4,/2008.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=7c73308a-2423-4549-8afe-5679336a9811&em

24/08/08

This is a Ringmaster Message to all Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators, from Bedfordshire Police

The following information is a press release issued to all residents that live near to Sub Stations.
Any Street Coordinators that have a Sub Station in their area can get leaflets by contacting their local Neighbourhood Watch Office.

North Beds
01234 275165
lynne.arch@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Mid Beds
01582 473158
june.adamson@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

South Beds
01582 473158
brendan.murray@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your continued support.

Sub Station Watch' Launched

Bedfordshire Police is raising the awareness of the dangers posed by vandalised sub stations and asking the public to help protect them with a new 'Watch' scheme.

Sub Station Watch is being launched in conjunction with Neighbourhood Watch and the local energy provider EDF. The scheme is designed to encourage those living near sub stations to keep an eye out for vandals and thieves. 

The initiative, led by community safety officer Sandra Murphy, is in response to a substantial rise in metal thefts across the county in recent months.

Sandra Murphy said: "The market value of metal is increasing making it an attractive thing to steal, which is why places like sub-stations are being targeted. We hope that Sub-station Watch will encourage those residents living near to such a site to look out for damage, vandals or thieves. If you see something or someone, call the police or the EDF free phone number on 0800 587 3243."

Sub-station Watch aims to prevent vandalism and criminal damage and prevent children gaining access to sub-stations. It also hopes to encourage existing Neighbourhood Watches to take on sub-stations as part of their remit or create new Neighbourhood Watch schemes where they do not already exist.

Leaflets promoting the scheme will be distributed by the Safer Neighbourhood Teams around the county in libraries and health centres etc.

If you have information about crime being committed in your neighbourhood contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team by logging on to www.bedfordshire.police.uk or phone 01234 841212.



To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.bedfordshirecommunitymessaging.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=e2c6ba54-f179-4852-aaf9-787293870cf9&email=-1&web=-1

06/08/08/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A new website called "Judge for Yourself" has been launched to allow the public get a better understanding of how community sentencing for individual offenders work. Its interactive design will have virtual on-line depictions of the process behind sentencing offenders and will be useful for anyone trying to understand more about community sentencing.

Visit the website at www.ezstream.co.uk/coi/

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=5b92ae6e-c7b8-4eb6-a454-0d743192775f&email=-1&web


26/07/08

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

During the last few months Bedfordshire Police have seen an increase in metal related crimes accross the County.

Schools Buildings and Churches have been particularly targetted.

Bedfordshire Police would like to ask all residents that live near to either schools or churches to be extra vigilant, especially during the school holidays when school buildings are empty.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to report any suspicious activity around these areas immediately, especially if people are seen on the roofs of buildings.

If you have information about any crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. 

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To reply to this message please use the following link.
http://www.safer-beds.org/rmwebportal/replytomesg.aspx?mesg_id=2e2c43cd-f45d-41d2-8b67-ae61473a54ed&email=-1&web=-1


24/7/08

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Mid and South Bedfordshire area.

We have received a report from Pirton Neighbourhood Watch, in Hertfordshire of a SCAM that has affected at least 2 residents in the village.

Both residents received a parcel from K warehouses. When they opened the parcel there was a brand new Ipod and an invoice for £400.

A few days later a man called to 1 of the houses, claiming that he had come to collect the parcel. The resident felt that the man was acting suspiciously and so refused to hand over the parcel and instead called K warehouses directly.

They stated that no one from their company had been sent to their address.

It appears that someone is ordering high value goods over the phone and giving false delivery details, then turning up to the house to collect the parcel, leaving the home owner with the bill to pay.

If you receive any property through the post that you have not ordered, please contact the supplier immediately and ask for a date and name for the person who will collect the unwanted package.

If you have any doubts about the validity of anyone who calls to you home, do not allow them in and call the police immediately.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


Shefford Neighbourhood Team July Newsletter


18/07/08

This is a message to all members of the Bedfordshire Police Ringmaster Messaging Service.

A new web site has been developed to compliment the email messages that we send you.

The address for the web site is

www.safer-beds.org

The site includes more detailed Crime Prevention Advice which you can use to protect your Home, Vehicle, or Business.

On this site you will also find information about all of the Watch Schemes that we offer, as well as information about events, and local news.

If you have any information about any local events or meetings that will be taking place in your local community please send us the details and we will add them to the calendar.

If you have any comments or suggestions about how the site could be improved in the future, please let us know.

Information, or comments can be sent to

ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


Thank you for your continued support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

15/07/08

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

A vehicle crime took place at the car park in Rwoney Warren Wood, off of the A600 in Chicksands, on Saturday the 12th of July, between 12:20, and 12:50 in the afternoon.

The vehicle was a Silver, 02 registered, Volkswagen Golf.

A side window was smashed, and the offender reached throught to remove a rucksack and a coat from the back seat.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,3,1,0,1,3,/2008.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

8/07/08

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Burglar alarms can be an effective deterrent to criminals. Without proper research they may also constitute a substantial investment. If you are considering purchasing a security alarm then consider one or more of the following: Ask a friend, relative or neighbour who has an alarm - often word of mouth is the best recommendation. Check the Trading Standards Approved website at www.bedfordshire.gov.uk/tsapproved or call on (01234) 228280. If you do neither of these then obtain 2 or 3 quotes to ensure you are getting best value for your money. 
 
Never buy ANYTHING from Cold Calling at the door or by telephone. Remember if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If in doubt contact the Crime Reduction Officer on (01234) 275273

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


26/06/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A Burglary took place in Gravenhurst Road, Campton, Shefford, between 5:00 in the evening, on the 25th, and 10:00 in the morning on the 26th of June.

At the above location, an offender has entered the garden, and used a garden fork from a neighbours garden, to lever open the lock on a shed door. Entry was gained, and a mountain bike stolen.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,2,8,5,0,5,/2008. 

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



06/06/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

The Crime Reduction Office at Greyfriars Police Station receives a number of queries regarding email hoaxes.  To name but a few, the "reverse ATM pin number", the "piece of paper tucked under the rear window wiper" and the "#90/#09" hoaxes are good examples.  On the whole, you will find these emails originate from America and you can pretty much discount all of them as a hoax.
 
As with any good scam, there has to be an element of "truth" to make the story plausible.  Quite often, a tv or film storyline is the inspiration for these hoaxes, along with ideas or inventions that never came to fruition.  Sometimes, to add authenticity, the email will quote a statement from a police officer.  In all of these cases, the officer's name is picked up from the Internet or local newspapers when they have been mentioned in an official press release.
 
Not only are these hoax emails a nuisance by filling up your Inbox but they increase the fear of non-existant crime, give inaccurate and possibly dangerous advice and have the potential to spread viruses very quickly when everyone forwards the message onto everyone they know.
 
The advice from Bedfordshire Police is to delete these emails immediately.  If you are curious about the content, you can always check it out on the Internet.  There are many myth-busting websites set up specifically to counteract the impact of these hoax emails.  The only message you should pass on is this one!
 
Lara Curtayne
Crime Reduction Officer
Bedfordshire Police


Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


5/06/08

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

If you live near to an elderly, or vulnerable person, please take the time to think about who might be calling at their home.

3 distraction burglaries have been reported in the Division in the last 3 days.

In all 3 cases the offenders claimed to be from the Water Board, asking to check the water pressue on the house.

The first took place in Stratton Way, in Biggleswade, on Monday the 2nd of June at 11:10 in the morning. 

The second took place in Easton Road, in Flitwick, on the 3rd of June, at 4:15 in the afternoon.

The third took place in Biggleswade Road, in Upper Caldecote, on Wednesday the 4th of June, at 11:30 in the morning.

In each case the offenders were 2 white males.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents to be vigilant and to keep an eye on any strange vehicles or vistors to eldery neighbours.

Keep both front and back doors locked at all times.

Always use a door chain and viewer when answering your door.

Always ask for Identification, and check it carefully.

Council, and housing association staff, will make an appointment with you before they call at your home.

03/06/08

This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Bedford and District Neighbourhood Watch. Please pass the details of this message to other members of your group.

The next anual Neighbourhood Watch Quiz night will take place on thursday the 19th of June, at police HQ, in Kempston, at 7:00pm.

Come and test out your general knowledge and try to beat the Mayor.

Teams of 4 people, 5 pounds per person which includes a buffet.

Licienced bar, and a Raffle. first prize a Fugi 7.2 mega pixel digital camera.

Team entries to Lynne Arch no later than Monday the 16th of June.

If wish to attend this event, please call the Neighbourhood Watch central office on (01234) 275165) or email lynne.arch@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

29/05/08

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

2 vehicle crimes have been reported in Campton.

A vehicle crime took place in Priory Road, overnight on the 24th to the 25th of May. The vehicle was a Black, M registered, BMW 3 series. A side window was smashed, and a sports bag was taken from the boot. Crime reference, J,/,2,3,9,2,0,/2008.

A vehicle was stolen from Gravenhurst Road, overnight on the 26th to the 27th of May. The vehicle was a White, X registered, Vauxhall Astra. Crime reference, J,/,2,3,9,0,9,/2008.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

If you have any information about these crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



28/05/08

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto friends and neighbours, in the area.

A vehicle crime took place in Priory Road, between 11:00 in the evening, on the 24th, and 2:30 in the afternoon on the 25th of May.

The vehicle was a black M registered, BMW 3 Series. 

Offenders have smashed the rear passenger window of the vehicle, and pulled the sears forward, and removed a bag from the boot of the vehicle containing a laptop, and other items.

Crime reference number, J,/,2,3,9,2,0,/2008.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote the crime reference number.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk




27/05/08

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

A vehicle crime took place at the car park to Chicksands Wood, on Sunday the 25th of May, between 1:30 and 5:30 in the afternoon.

The vehicle was a Red, X registered, Vauxhall Astra.

A side window was smashed, and the offender removed a satellite navigation system from the foot well of the vehicle.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,2,3,7,3,2,/2008.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

24/05/08 

This is a Ringmaster Messages to all members in the Bedfordshire area, who may have been using the M1 motorway on the morning of Thursday the 22nd of May.

Please forward this message to any friends or relatives that may have been in the area at the time.

Did YOU See Incident on M1?

BEDFORDSHIRE Police are appealing for witnesses to an incident that happened on the hard shoulder of the M1 in the early hours of yesterday morning (Thursday, May 22).

It happened at around 7.36am on the northbound carriage, near junction 11, where it appears there was an exchange between the driver of a blue VW Polo and a blue Peugeot.

One of the drivers, a man in his 20s, sustained head injuries and was taken to the Luton & Dunstable Hospital and later transferred to the Royal Free in London where he is in a serious condition.

DI Gary White, of the Beds and Herts Major Crime Unit, wants to establish how the victim sustained his injuries and why.

He is keen to speak to anyone who was on the motorway around that time and saw either vehicle travelling along the motorway or stationary on the hard shoulder.

Anyone with information can contact police, in confidence, on 01707-355959, the main switchboard on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Thank your for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


23/05/08

This is a ringmaster message to all residents in the Bedfordshire area.

The following message is a Press Release.

Teaming up to stamp out the fraudsters 

Trading Standards Officers and Special Constables from Bedfordshire County Council teamed up with Bedfordshire Police on Wednesday (21 May 2008) to stamp out rogue traders in Bedfordshire. 

Officers were also joined by representatives from Bedford Borough Council, Mid and South Beds District Council, the Department of Works and Pensions, HM Revenue and Customs, Immigration Officers and Officers from Housing and Council Tax Benefits. 

Officers hit the roadside at 6am, with checks on vehicles that appeared to be used by builders or home repair companies. Officers from the multiple agencies carried out checks on whether everyone was registered with the Inland Revenue and that none were claiming benefits illegally. Police checks were also made on equipment to ensure they met the required standards. 

Over the course of the day, around 40 vehicles were stopped. The cars and their occupants were checked by the various agencies and some are now subject to benefit fraud investigations. A number of vehicles stopped had no insurance and the teams recovered a stolen Audi car from Kent. 

Carl Davies, Head of Trading Standards at Bedfordshire County Council, said: "Joint work exercises like this are key to forming a visual deterrent against anyone hoping to come into Bedfordshire and rip off our residents. 

"We are reducing the number of rogue traders in the County. However rogue traders will still try their luck. If you need a reputable trader use one from our Trading Standards Approved scheme." 
 
Special Constabulary Chief Officer Nigel Green from Bedfordshire Police, said: "We are delighted to have had this opportunity to team up with partner agencies, not least because there is often a link between rogue traders and distraction burglars who prey on the most vulnerable members of our community. The public can help by keeping an eye on their elderly neighbours and contacting us if they see anything suspicious."


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


12/05/08

You are all invited to a Smart Water and summer crime reduction presentation, to be held at the police headquarters, Bridgebury House, Woburn Road, Kempston, Bedford, MK43 9AX, on Monday the 16th of June, at 7:00 in the evening (refreshments provided from 6:30 in the evening).

Mark Winchester will explain the benefits of Smart Water (a way of forensically marking property) and Pete Spicer, North Bedfordshires crime reduction officer, will also be speaking.

Visit: http://www.smartwater.com/ for more information on Smart Water.

If wish to attend this event, please call Lynne Arch on (01234) 275165, or email her at Lynne.Arch@Bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk. 


09/05/08

This is a Ringmaster Message to all residents in the Bedfordshire area.

The following press release gives the details of a number of significant Drugs Arrests that have been made in the County.

A SPECIALIST Bedfordshire Police team yesterday (Thursday, May 8) arrested two people and seized suspected crack-cocaine following the latest in a series of successful raids this year.

Detectives swooped on an address in the Meadow Way estate, Leighton Buzzard, at 1.10pm where they arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply.

They recovered wraps, scales and other paraphernalia and the pair were taken to Dunstable Police Station and later released on police bail pending forensic analysis of the substance, thought to have a street value of up to £300.

The operation, led by DC Richard Foulkes, involved six officers from the division's Specialist and Economic Crime Unit and was the latest in a series of significant, but wholly unconnected, warrants executed by the unit since January.

Last month the team arrested a man on suspicion of drugs offences after raiding a Bedford industrial unit and days earlier they arrested a man after recovering a banned Taser weapon, several hundred ecstasy tablets and amphetamine powder in Biggleswade.

In March SECU arrested four people and seized drugs from five houses in Flitwick - less than 24 hours after working with HM Revenue & Customs to arrest a man in Houghton Regis on suspicion of attempting to purchase prohibited weapons.

In January, the unit arrested five people and seized tens of thousands of pounds believed to be the proceeds of crime following an operation in Leighton Buzzard.

DI Mark Lay, who heads the unit, said: "It has been an incredibly busy year and highlights that if you are involved in drugs and other serious offences in Bedfordshire, you can expect a visit from us at any time of the day or night.

"Part of our success is down to greater public awareness and support of our work, and we continue to urge the public to contact us with information - because we will act on it."

Anyone with information can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.


To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

Watchwide News Spring 2008

2/05/08

This is a Ringmaster message to all residents in the Mid and South Beds area who may own or house Horses.

Equestrians living in the Mid and South beds area, are being encouraged to get their saddle and tack security marked in a joint crime reduction initiative by Horsewatch and the South Bedfordshire Safer Neighbourhood Team.

The event will be held on Wednesday the 21st of May at 7.30 in the evening at TC Feeds, in Kensworth. 

There will be a talk by Tim Mockford, on the horse foot structure Security, and how you can help yourselves more Smart Water.

Come and chat PC Louise Howar and PC Viv Dady from the Safer Neighbourhood Team, and chat to horse owners and livery yard owners.

We are also hoping for Farmykey and Freezemark to come as well.

By working jointly with Horsewatch in this way we hope that riders across Mid and South Bedfordshire will come to this event and benefit from this initiative. 

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


Safer Neighbourhood Team April Newsletter


16th April

This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

On Thursday the 10th of April 2008, Dean Hall of Beatrice Street, Kempston, appeared at Bedford Magistrate Court and was charged with theft from a motor vehicle and theft of a jacket. Also taken in to consideration were 120 offences of theft from motor vehicles under the 'clean slate' initiative. He was sentenced to 18 months supervision, 12 months Drug Rehabilitation Requirement, and a 3-year ASBO was also imposed which restricts him from entry into any car park in Bedfordshire. The prosecution, following Mr Halls assistance and willingness to admit his criminality supported the sentence.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or a Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal to consider that there is valuables in the car.

Opportunists criminals may find it too much of a temptation to ignore property on view. Keep it hidden and keep it safe.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk
14th April 2008

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Now that the sun is making more frequent appearances the opportunist criminal is finding rich pickings taking advantage of householders who have left doors and windows open. Often they will be working in the garden, sitting outside enjoying the sunshine or have left them open while they "just pop to the shops" or "pick the kids up from school."

Here are some tips, so you can enjoy the longer spring days but keep security in mind.

Secure your doors and windows whenever you are away from home.

When youre in the garden secure any door or window that you cannot see from where you are.

Consider distraction burglars and if an unexpected caller comes to the front door ensure the back door is secure before answering.

If you have a burglar alarm routinely use it.

Repair rear fences that may have been blown over in recent winds.

Plant prickly bushes on garden boundaries.

Ensure side entrances are locked.

Security mark your property - handlers, as well as thieves, hate anything that can be traced back to the owner.

Consider joining Neighbourhood Watch and get neighbours registered with ringmaster. The more people who join the more effective ringmaster can be.

Please pass a copy the attached leaflet to friends, family and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


5th April 2008

This is a ringmaster message to all residents in the Shefford area.

Please find attached a PDF document containing information about your Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Covering the villages of Shefford, Campton, Chicksands, Clifton, Gravenhurst, Shillington, Meppershall, Stondon, and Barton Le Clay.

You can contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team, by calling

01234 842 567

or by email at

snt.shefford@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk


26/03/08
This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

A burglary took place in Hoover Place, in Chicksands, between 10:30 on the morning of the 21st, and 12:30 in the afternoon of the 22nd of March.

The offender has used the metal padlock and hinge from the garden shed to smash a rear facing patio door.

A large TV was taken from the living room.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

Remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Avoid leaving property like Handbags, Keys, or laptops in hallways, or where they can be seen from outside the house.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

Be a good Neighbour.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

Report any suspicious activity, or vehicles, in the area.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote Crime reference, J,/,1,3,4,7,0,/2008.

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

To contact the Ringmaster Systems Administrator, email
ringmaster@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk



12/03/08
This is a Ringmaster message to all Neighbourhood Watch members in the Mid, and South Beds areas.

The Bedfordshire Police Community Safety Department, are pleased to announce that funding has been approved for a part time Coordinator for the Mid Beds area.

Mrs June Adamson has been appointed to the position, with immediate effect.

June will be based at Dunstable Police Station, and will work alongside Brendan Murray in the Community Safety Team.
 
It is planned that Brendan will concentrate on issues in the South of the County, whilst continuing to support June in her duties as required.

The first project will be to update the coordinators database, and once completed, this will allow both Brendan and June to give more time to promoting and assisting the efforts of Neighbourhood Watch groups across both areas.

June and Brendan will share the same phone number (01582) 473158.

Email addresses are as follows.
 
brendan.murray@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

 and
 
june.adamson@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk

10/03/08
This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto  friends and neighbours, in the area.

A vehicle crime took place in Ampthill Road, Shefford, overnight between the 7th and the 8th of March.

At the above location, an offender has broke into a vehicle, started the engine, and driving off in it.

The vehicle, is an L registered, blue, Vauxhall Cavalier.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satellite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates thefts can be reduced by applying a small amount of super glue to the underside of the screw head.

Plates can also be replaced with Anti Tamper plates, which shatter if the offender attempts to remove them.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds, and quote crime reference, J,/,1,1,0,3,2,/2008.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

16/01/08

This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

Please pass the details of this message onto any friends, and neighbours, in the area.

The police have been made aware, of several incidences in Bedford town centre involving thefts from shoppers handbags.

Bedfordshire police offer the following advice.

Be aware of distractions, like being asked the time or being jostled, if this occurs, check your bag straight away.

Bags should be made of good quality, strong meterial, leather is the best.

Dont be rushed at the tills, put your purse or wallet away securely and ensure you have fastened your bag properly.

If at all possible, keep purses and wallets in an inside jacket pocket.

If you have any information about these incidences, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds.

Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.

http://www.safer-beds.org
14/01/08
This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning on the river Great Ouse between Bedford and St. Neots. 

Towns and villages that may be affected may include Bedford, Cople, Willington, Gt Barford, Tempsford, Roxtin, Wyboston, Eynesbury, Little Paxton and, Offord. 

For more enquiries please contact the Environment Agencies Floodline on (0845) 988 1188 or visit their website.

Thank you for your support.


http://www.safer-beds.org

11/01/08

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. 

If you live near to an elderly, or vulnerable person, please take the time to think about who might be calling at their home.

A quantity of Anglian Water, uniforms have been stolen from the Northamptonshire area. Distraction burglars often use the excuse, that they need to check a water supply, to gain access to peoples homes. Once inside they will quickly locate, and steal cash and valuables, before leaving. It is quite possible, that these uniforms can be used to gain entry to property.

Bedfordshire Police offer the following advice.

Keep both front and back doors locked at all times.

Always use a door chain and viewer when answering your door.

Always ask for Identification, and check it carefully.

Utility companies, council, and housing association staff, will make an appointment with you before they call at your home.

If you have any doubts do not let the person in and dial 9 9 9.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212, for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds.

Thank you for your support.

Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dean.doyle@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org



22/12/07 

This is s Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch, and Bedfordshire Police.

Please pass on the information in this message to any friends, family, or neighbours in the area.

Many homes will be left empty over the christmas and new year period.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents to take a short amount of time to consider your home security, before you go away.

Try to make you home look occupied. Using timers on lights, a radio, and even the TV, at different periods through the day will give the impression that someone is home.

Ask a neighbour to keep an eye on your home, collect any post, and open or close curtains. If they are having guests over the christmas holiday, ask if they wish to park a car on you driveway.

Remember to cancel any regular deliveries, like milk and newspapers.

If you normally keep high value items in sheds or garages, consider bringing them into the house, where they will be more secure.

Lock all internal doors and windows, remove the keys from the locks and store them out of view.

If you are leaving a car behind on the driveway, make sure all keys for the vehicle are well hidden.

Most burglars enter the house through a back door or window, so remember to lock side gates, and lock away any garden furniture, ladders, or tools, that an offender could use to gain entry to your home.

Be a good neighbour. Look out for suspicious vehicles or visitors in your area, and report them immediately.

Be aware of sounds like breaking glass.

If you have information about any crime, please contact the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 for Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds.

Thank you for your support. 
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org


8th Dec 2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Bedfordshire Police want you to have a Safe and Happy Christmas.

The following tips are aimed at reducing winter crime.

When christmas shopping, avoid leaving bags and belongings in the car. Lock everything in the boot. 

Remember to put purses and cash away, before leaving cash machines, and shop tills. Dont let other customers, or staff rush you.

Keep sheds and garages secure, Christmas food, and alcohol, are frequently stolen from outbuildings during the Christmas period.

If you are going to be away during Christmas, take some time to consider your security.

Ask a friend, neighbour, or Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator, to look after your house whilst you are away.

Ask them to open and close curtains and remove any post from the front door.

Timer switches for Lights, a radio, or even the TV can create the impression that someone is home.

Ask a neighbour to park their car on your driveway.

Check that external lights are working, and that sheds and garages are secured.

Hide away high value items. Burglars will not want to waste time searching.
 
Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be extra vigilant during the Christmas period, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

Winter 2007 Watch Wide News

17/10/07
Neighbourhood Watch
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

A security company is currently cold calling Bedfordshire households, initially by phone, to offer home security checks. 

The company have, in at least one case, offered a free alarm, and in another case quoted for an alarm system that the client felt was over priced. 

Whilst Bedfordshire Police do not endorse individual companies we recommend that, if you feel you need an alarm, you obtain 2 or 3 quotes in order to get the best value, and that you ensure the company you deal with are registered with National Security Inspectorate. 

You can also contact Trading Standards, for approved traders in your area, on (01234) 228280.  

The methods being used are very hard sell and rely on increasing the residents fear of crime. 

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

If you have any information about bogus callers, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 for Mid Beds, or (01582)401212 for South Beds. Or call Crimestoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

11/10/07 
This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Home Watch. Please pass the details of this message to other members of your group.

Brendan Murray, Home Watch Coordinator for Mid and South Beds has moved to new offices at Dunstable Police Station.

Although his email address is unchanged, he now has a new telephone number.

(01582) 473158.

Please make a note of the new number as Brendan is unable to pick up any messages left at the old Leighton Buzzard office.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org
This is a Ringmaster Message on behalf of Home Watch. Please pass the details of this message to other members of your group.

The Autumn edition of the Watch Wide News is now available on the Bedfordshire Police website. www.bedfordshire.police.uk 

under the heading CRIME INFO
under this heading open OPERATION SCORPION
then PUBLICATIONS from the right side of the menu.

Hard copies are not yet back from the printers, but will start to go out in the next week.

If you have any problems please contact Brendan Murray on 01582 473158.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

Monday the 15th of October sees the start of National "Not in my Neighbourhood" Week, celebrating 25 years of Neighbourhood Watch in England and Wales.

Below is a press release listing some of the events taking place in Bedforshire over the week.

Please attend an event or simply use the week as an excuse to get in touch with other members of your group, or the local Neighbourhood Policing Team to talk about issues and ideas for your area.

Details about your local Policing Team can be found on the Bedfordshire Police web site using the following link

http://www.bedfordshire.police.uk/index.php?_id=389

PRESS RELEASE..................

Crimefighters Team up During 'Not in My Neighbourhood Week'

A NATIONAL week that highlights how communities can successfully pull together in the fight against crime will be celebrated across Bedfordshire next week.

Neighbourhood Watch, Bedfordshire Police and other agencies are joining forces during 'Not in My Neighbourhood Week', which runs from Monday (October 15) to Sunday (October 21) and coincides with the 25th anniversary of Neighbourhood Watch.

On Wednesday (Oct 17) Neighbourhood Watch and fellow members of North Beds Community Safety Group will set up a stall in Harpur Square, Bedford, to highlight how criminal damage is being tackled. Members will hand out a document detailing the partnership work done so far, initiatives in the pipeline and how members of the community can get involved.

>From 6.45pm Thursday (Oct 18) North Beds Neighbourhood Watch will hold a conference at police headquarters in Kempston reflecting on its 25 year history, its ambitions for the future and emergency planning procedures.

At 10am On Friday (Oct 19) police Safer Neighbourhood Teams will hold a tack marking session outside Great Barford Post Office followed by another, at 2pm, at the Elizabeth Curtis Riding Centre in Bromham. A general property marking session will be held at Little Staughton on Sunday (October 21).
 
A mobile police station, packed with information about Neighbourhood Watch, will tour Parkside in Houghton Regis throughout the week and support the 'Pride in Parkside' initiative spearheaded by South Beds Community Safety Partnership.

In Shefford the week will be used to distribute leaflets and highlighting an event at Shefford fire station in Ivel Road called 'The Big Picture'. It is on October 26 and 27 and will feature everything from dramatic fire safety displays to the mobile police station and bicycle marking. Residents will also get the chance to complete town council questionnaires about their local community.

 'Not in My Neighbourhood Week' will mark an important chapter in the history of the new Fairfield estate in Stotfold, since its hoped residents will band together to form three new Home Watch groups.

Similar work will be going on in Bedford's Putnoe and Goldington wards and will continue into the following week when a stall is set up outside Tesco in Goldington Road on October 25.

Safer Neighbourhood Teams across Dunstable, Houghton Regis and Leighton Buzzard will step up the fight against distraction burglars by distributing hundreds of crime prevention leaflets to the friends and family of elderly people. They pose questions like "Who is Mum Letting in Today?" and "Who is at Dad's Door?"

In Bedford, the Blue Caps and Police Community Support Officers will hand out special "jingle bells" which can be attached to purses and handbags to deter thieves.

Community Safety Manager for Bedfordshire Police, Sandra Murphy, said: "It's encouraging to see so many partners coming together to mark this week. They are raising awareness of crime reduction work and getting even more people involved."

* A limited number of places are still available for the Neighbourhood Watch conference at Kempston. Anyone interested in attending should contact North Beds Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Ian Hunter on 01234 275165.

Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org


Summer 2007 Watchwide News

3/10/07
This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto your friends and neighbours.

2 burglaries have been reported in the Campton area.

A burglary took place in Gravenhurst Road, between wednesday the 26th to Monday the 1st of October. The offender entered the front porch and forced open the front door. The house was searched and property was taken. Crime reference, D,/,4,7,7,8,3,/2007.

A Distraction Burglary took place in Gravenhurst Road, near to the junction with Campton Road, on MOnday the 1st of October, at 4:45 in the afternoon. A man called to the house claiming to be from the water board. He was allowed into the home, and asked the owner to check the taps. Mean while a second male entered the house and remved some  cash and jewellery. The first offender was a White male, 5 foot 6 in height, with a medium build. He had black collar length hair. The second  offender was a White male, 6 foot tall, with a heavy build. Crime reference, D,/,4,7,7,8,3,/2007.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

If small fan light windows are left open in warmer weather, a window restrictor can be fitted to prevent an offender reaching inside.

If you have any information about these crimes, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212. Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

11/09/07
This is a Ringmaster Message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto your friends and neighbours.

A Burglary took place in Greenway, in Campton, overnight on the 8th to the 9th of September.

The front door to the house, had been left unlocked.

The offender entered the house, and removed a handbag from the kitchen.

Many Burglaries can be prevented.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times.

remove all keys from the locks and keep them in a safe place and out of view.

Keep garden furniture, ladders, and Wheelie bins in a secure garage or shed, or locked up away from the house, where they might be used to climb onto a roof or access a first floor window.

If small fan light windows are left open in warmer weather, a window restrictor can be fitted to prevent an offender reaching inside.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 and quote crime reference D,/,4,4,3,8,3,/2007. Or call crime stoppers in confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

4/9/07
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass this message onto any elderly, or vulnerable residents in the area.

A Distraction Burglary took place in Greenway, in Campton, on Saturday the 1st of September, at 3:00 in the afternoon.

A man called at the house claiming he needed to work on the water supply. He was allowed into the house, and the owner was told to hold onto a tap.

The owner said she needed to go upstairs, where she disturbed 2 further men in a bedroom.

The man left the house, taking a handbag with them.

The handbag was recovered on the A 5 0 7 , between Henlow, and Arlesey.

The first offender was a white male, 30 years old, with a slim build, and brown hair. He spoke with an Irish accent.

The second offender was a white male, 30 years old, heavy build, with ginger hair. He spoke with an Irish accent.

Bedfordshire Police offer the following advice:

Always use a door chain and viewer when answering your door.

Keep both front and back doors locked at all times.

Never let a person into your home, without first confirming their identity, and their reason for calling.

Most utility companies, council and housing association staff, will make an appointment with you before they call at your home.

If you have any doubts do not let the person in and dial 9 9 9.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 and quote Crime Reference, D,/,4,2,7,4,2,/2007.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org



3/09/07
This is a Ringmaster message, from Home Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto your friends and neighbours.

Over the past few days, Ringmaster members have reported a number of incidents of cold calling, or suspicous phone calls, in the Mid and South Bedfordshire area.

In some cases the caller has known the residents name, and the name of their bank.

In each case the caller has attempted to obtain further personal details, like account numbers, dates of birth, or maiden names.

Other members have reported visitor to the house claiming to be from chairities, asking the resident to set up a direct debit to the charity, again asking for bank account details at the door.

Bedfordshire Police offers the following advice.

Never buy goods, or services at the doorstep or over the phone.

Never provide personal details over the phone, unless you made the call yourself.

If you are called from someone claiming to be from your bank. hang up, and call the bank yourself.

If you are interested in donating to a charity, ask the caller for information to be sent to you, and then contact the charity directly.

Never invite a cold caller into your home. If you are interested in the service, make an appointment for them to call again, and have a friend or relative with you when they call back.

Be vigilant, and report suspicious activity in your area.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

23rd August, 2007

This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass this message onto any elderly, or vulnerable residents in the area.

3 distraction burglaries have been reported in the Bedfordshire area in a 24 hour period.

The means of entry and the discription of the man are the same each time.

Please take the time to listen to this message, and pass on the details and advice, to any elderly residents in your street.

The first took place in Old Oak Close, in Arlersey, on Tuesday the 21st of August, at 7:00 in the evening.

The second took place in Crawley Close, in Slip End, on Wednesday the 22nd of August, at 2:50 in the afternoon.

The third took place in St Johns Street, in Biggleswade, on Wednesday the 22nd of August, at 4:30 in the afternoon.

In each case a smartly dressed man in a dark suit, called to the house, claiming to be from the water board.

He has been allowed into the house and made some basic checks of pipes and taps.

Meanwhile a second, unseen offender has entered the house through the unlocked front door, and removed cash or jewellery.

The man is a white male, in his 30s to 40s, 5 foot 8 to 6 foot in height, with a slim build, and short dark hair. He spoke with either a scottish, or Irish accent. 1 victim mentioned he was wearing gloves.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents not to allow any stranger into the house with out a valid ID card, and an appointment.

Always use a door chain and viewer when answering your door.

Keep both front and back doors locked at all times.

Check who your water supplier is. Either Anglia Water, or Thames Water, and contact them dirrectly if anyone calls claiming to be from the water board.

If you have any doubts dial 9 9 9 immediately.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 for North and Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.
http://www.safer-beds.org

Received 20th July 2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Home Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

During School Holidays, Bedfordshire Police often see an increase in reports of Burglaries and Criminal Damage to school buildings.

Often the empty buildings are seem as an easy target.

Bedfordshire Police ask residents that live or work near to school buildings to be extra vigilant, and report any suspicious visitors, or vehicles, seen on the school site.

If you have any information, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 for Mid Beds, or (01582) 401212 for South Beds. Or call Crime stoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.


Received 18th July 2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Please be advised that the latest (summer) edition of the Watch Wide News is now available to download from the Beds police web site 

www.bedfordshire.police.uk  

by entering Operation Scorpion and then publications as usual.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.



Received 3rd July 2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

A major counter terrorism investigation is underway following two attacks, in London, and Glasgow. Both devices had the potential to cause mass damage to property, but also significant fatalities. 

There is no information that suggests that any part of the UK is a specific target, but another attack is believed to be immanent. 

This policing activity is being undertaken to ensure that the public at large is kept safe. All police forces across the country will be increasing their police patrols in areas, which may be vulnerable. These include areas where large numbers of people may gather and licensed premises. 
Police officers will be visiting such areas and premises in your area throughout the weekend and following days to ensure they are kept safe. 

Terrorism affects all of our communities, and their safety is our highest priority. We will do our utmost to help people recognise the signs of suspicious activity, and to assist us in defeating terrorism. Armed officers will be patrolling at significant points such as transport hubs. 

The police will continue to work with our partners and communities at local, regional and national level to prevent terrorism. 

We need our communities to help defeat terrorism, we need all of our communities to be vigilant, and report any suspicious behaviour to the anti terrorist hotline on (0800) 789321.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.




Received 27/06/07
This is a Ringmaster message, from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message onto you friends and neighbours.

A vehicle crime was reported in Grange Gardens, in Campton, overnight on the 22nd to the 23rd of June.

The vehicle was a Green, W registered, Jaguar.

The Jaguar badge had been removed from the front of the car, causing damage to the bonnet.

Many Vehicle crimes can be prevented.

Taking a few seconds of your time to clear property from your car, can prevent the inconvenience of a broken window or a damaged door.

Even a cradle for a Satallite Navigation System, or Mobile phone, will encourage a criminal that there are valuables in the car.

Number plates and car stereos can be secured with Clutch Head Screws. This means they can not be removed with a normal screwdriver.

If you have any information about this crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01234) 841212 and quote crime reference, D,/,3,0,5,7,1,/2007.

Or call Crime stoppers in Confidence on (0800) 555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.



Received 12/05/2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

Please be advised that the number of vehicle registration plates being stolen has increased. 

In order to avoid becoming a victim 
please consider using clutch head screws to secure your registration plates.

These are "one way screws" which can be put in place with a regular screwdriver but removing them is virtually impossible.

These screws can be purchased from specialist companies and from suppliers on the Internet.

Bedfordshire Police ask local residents to be vigilant, and to report anything suspicious immediately.

If you have any information about any crime, please call the Police Control Centre on (01582) 401212, Or call Crimestoppers in confidence on (0800)555111.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.

Received 11/05/2007
This is a Ringmaster message from Neighbourhood Watch and Bedfordshire Police. Please pass the details of this message, onto your friends and neighbours.

PRESS RELEASE

Police Issue Warning on Bank Card Fraud

BEDFORDSHIRE Police are warning residents to be on their guard against bank card fraud.

Officers say in the last few days they have received a number of complaints from people whose cards appear to have been cloned by offenders who have then made unauthorised transactions.

Bedfordshire Police's Economic Crime Unit, based at Luton Police Station, is investigating how the cards were tampered with, what sums are involved and where the offences have taken place. However, an emerging pattern is most of the complaints have come from elderly victims.

Sgt Ian McBrearty, of the Dunstable-based Operational Performance Unit, said card cloning usually involves an offender using sophisticated skimming-type devices to take details from a card and transfer them to another.

The best way to avoid fraud is to ensure a card never leaves your sight once handed over for payment and, if you suspect it may have been tampered with, contact your bank immediately.

It is also essential to ensure no-one is looking over your shoulder when you key in a pin number, which should never be written down or shared with someone else. Also, check your statement regularly for any unusual spending patterns.

Sgt McBrearty said: "We are working hard to nip this in the bud but in the meantime we would urge residents to take extra care when out purchasing goods and services."

Anyone with information on credit card fraud can contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Anyone who notices something unusual on their statement should, in the first instance, contact their bank.

Thank you for your support.
Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.

This is a Ringmaster message from Bedfordshire Police.

As of Tuesday the 1st of May, Bedfordshire Police will be running a single ringmaster system across North, Mid and South Bedfordshire.
 
It is hoped that this new joined up service will encourage better communication, between the Police and Watch Scheme members across the county.
 
This new service will run on a web based system, which will offer a new web site to compliment the Ringmaster messages. The web site will be launched in the summer, and all existing members will be sent details of how to access the site in due course.
 
We hope that members continue to find the service valuable and pass on the messages to the wider community.
 
If you currently receive messages by telephone and would be interested in trying the email service, please contact the systems administrator for the division.
 
Sarah Stevens, on (01234) 275288, or email sarah.stevens@safer-beds.org
 
Many thanks for your continued support.

Please phone us with any information or click here mailto:dunstable@safer-beds.org to reply.

Ringmaster Ref:   3107-Shefford
General Category: Criminal Damage
Broadcast Date:   25 Apr 2007

Dear Home Watch members, the following incident has been broadcast for your attention. Please note the Unique Reference Number for the Incident:

Rpt Date: Tue, 24th April at 9:00 am: Ampthill Road, Shefford.
Some time between 9:00pm Monday and 9:00am Tuesday an unknown offender used a Crowbar type implement to attempt to prise open the driver-side door of a Ford Escort vehicle parked at the location. No access was gained but substantial damage was caused.
IncRef: RM2849-2404-3107 (Criminal Damage).

Winter 2006 Edition of Watch Wide News

Ringmaster Ref:   2961-All Central Division
General Category: Bogus Caller
Broadcast Date:   19 Jan 2007

Dear Home Watch and Warden Watch members, the following incident has been broadcast for your attention. Please note the Unique Reference Number for the Incident:

Rpt Date: Fri, 19th January at 4:51 pm: 
Bedfordshire police would like to make all Homewatch members aware of an incident in which a resident in Mid Beds recieved a call from a company who claimed to be working on behalf of the Police and were offering security products, such as alarm systems, for sale.  May we take this opportunity to remind you that Bedfordshire police do not endorse or allow any individuals to make such claims . In the event that you receive such a call, whether on the phone or at the door or by leaflet, please notify:

Trading Standards Dept (Beds County Council) on 08454 04 05 06

and ask for advice on how to deal with Rogue or Bogus traders.

IncRef: RM2645-1901-2961 (Bogus Caller).


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If anyone saw or heard anything relating to any incident broadcast by Ringmaster please contact the Dunstable Ringmaster on 01582 473351 quoting the Unique Reference Number given for this incident.
Always, in the case of an emergency, dial 999.


Ringmaster Ref:   2944-Elderly Neighbours
General Category: Concern For Safety
Broadcast Date:   12 Jan 2007

Dear Home Watch and Warden Watch members, please take note the following broadcast information:

Rpt Date: Fri, 12th January at 6:40 pm: 
Bedfordshire Police would like all members to promote the care of elderly neighbours in your community. This does not simply mean the person living next door to you but to all elderly person that you may encounter or liaise with at any time. Look out for them when you are out and about and don't leave them vulnerable to PickPockets and Purse Snatchers.

If you do have elderly neighbours, get to know them and pass on any relevant Crime Reduction advice to them. In particular those concerning Bogus Callers.

The elderly are particularly prone to Bogus Callers who are adept at duping them into letting them into their residences with claims of being "From the Council, the Waterboard, The 'Electrics' company and so on. 

Once inside, the victim more often has their Cash and other valuables stolen while the offender wishes them a 'Good Day'. The victim may only find out much later that they have been 'burgled' which could leave a damaging effect on their well being.

Some callers are Teenagers who claim to have 'Lost a Ball' in the garden or are 'looking for a friend' and then there are the one who use the victim's sympathy such being thirsty and 'need a glass of water' or 'Need to use the loo'

If your elderly neighbour is not already on Ringmaster or part of a Homewatch group or Warden Watch why not suggest it to them. If they need more information, you or they can always contact Ringmaster or Homewatch using the contact details you already have.

Bedfordshire Polices' Crime Reduction Team have a wealth of information that can be put into practice to help them stay safer. For instance, Chains, Locks, Spy Holes, Granny Boots, Alarm system or simple advice like asking for identification or contacting a trusted neighbour if some one unexpected calls.

And there is always our friendly Bobby Van crew who are always available to help them.

Of course, there are many other organisations that provide help for the elderly - Why not help them to check out some. They will be sure to make new friends and this will help them to share knowledge, experiences and other information making them feel safer and even more a part of the community.

For more information please call 01582 841212 and ask for the Crime Reduction Team for your area.
IncRef: RM2629-1201-2944 (Concern For Safety).


Ringmaster Ref:   2943-All Central Division: General Information Broadcast Date: 10 Jan 2007
Dear members,
Bedfordshire Police aare considering reducing the level of Ringmaster service across the County due to cutbacks in the Bedfordshire Police Force. The result of the [proposed] cut is that a single Ringmaster Sys Admin would cover the whole County (Excluding Luton).
 
It is highly likely that the cut will fall on the Dunstable (South/Mid Beds) RM as the new Web-based Ringmaster Broadcast system is now in operation but currently only covering the North Beds area.
 
I am preparing a document defending the retension of dual posts within the County - i.e. That one Ringmaster could not produce a timely and effective enough service for the whole County and require your input concerning what impact you might perceive from a reduced level of Ringmaster service and it being solely managed from Bedford.
 
Some background information:
- Bedford current have around 3500 members. Dunstable has around 2000 (started much later than Bedford);
- Bedford has around 5 separate Watch groups; Dunstable has 11 separate watch groups;
- The Bedford RM is currently part-time while Dunstable is full time;
- Bedford covers Northwards from Wooton, Stevington, Witshamstead, Northill, Edworth and parts of Biggleswade - Dunstable area covers all areas South of those mentioned (Excluding Luton). Both areas are already individually large. Both together!?;
- The current time required to research information for broadcast on a daily basis is quite lengthy and especially protracted on Mondays due to the weekend break. The reports are primarily designed for Police perusal - not for Ringmaster and requie searching, relevant detail extraction, 'de-sensitizing' and reformatting prior to broadcasting;
- How would the system be managed when the sole Rm Sys admin were on leave or off ill?;
- There are a growing number of Watch groups being created due to increasing awareness of the potential of the Ringmaster system. More watchgroups require even more management both of registered members and while producing messages for specific groups - more so where messages are relevant to more than one specific group during a single broadcast.

Other points to consider would be:
    - The RM administrator's knowlwdge of local areas for tailored messages;
    - Likelyhood of single administrator attending meetings over the whole county;
    - The number of messages that a single adminstrator could deliver daily over the whole county;
    - A single administrator managing all new members registrations, current members updates and queries;
    - Impact of increasing watchgroups reducing overall output to individual Watch groups;

Please make your response as simple or complex as you can manage. The important thing is to air your opinion on the issue.

Thank you, Ulin Smith (Dunstable Ringmaster.


Ringmaster Ref:   2937-All Central Division
General Category: Burglary
Broadcast Date:   08 Jan 2007

Dear 'Home Watch' members, the following incident has been broadcast for your attention. Please note the Unique Reference Number for the Incident:

Rpt Date: Mon, 8th January at 6:23 pm: 
 Bedfordshire Police have issued the following press Release entitled:  Burglary Spate Prompts Insurance Warning.

HOUSEHOLDERS who fail to lock doors properly could invalidate their insurance if they get burgled.

The stark warning comes from Bedfordshire Police who say too many residents are still ignoring advice on how to double lock a UPVC door.

The way to do it is to lift the handle up before you turn the key, which ensures the top and bottom claw bolts are in place and the unit is completely secure.  Simply turning the key means you are relying entirely on the small central chamfered catch.

Burglary reduction officer PC John Shiels said since Christmas there has been a significant increase in burglaries where insecure UPVC doors have been forced. The Flitwick, Ampthill, Dunstable and Houghton Regis areas are among those hit.

Favourite targets such as telephones, lap tops and handbags are nearly always close at hand. In some cases burglars have even found pin numbers conveniently written down with bank cards.

PC Shiels said: "Despite our repeated warnings many people are still simply turning the key on their UPVC doors, rather than lifting the handle first to ensure deadlocks are in place. 

"I have spoken to insurance companies that advise although claims are always looked at individually, people who don�t lock doors properly could invalidate a claim, or least experience a delay in payment.

"Bedfordshire Police are taking steps to trace offenders, and have made a number of significant arrests, but we need the support of the public. That includes locking doors properly, contacting us immediately if they believe they have been burgled and never keeping a written note of pin numbers. Property, including your January sales electrical bargains, should be postmarked, since burglars and handlers hate anything that can be easily identified."

Anyone with information about burglary can contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on 01234 841212 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
IncRef: RM2622-0801-2937 (Burglary).