6th Feb 2012
October 17, 2011
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11th Dec 2011
December
The Safer Dorset Handbook recently distributed by the Dorset Police Authority indicates that the crime figures for the East Dorset Neighbourhood Area were drastically reduced in every category during the period March 2010 to March 2011 except dwellings burglary which actually increased during that period. The police are to be congratulated on the improved figures but it does remind us that, during periods of economic downturn, increases in burglary may be a logical development. Personal home security precautions can do much to combat the problem where the simple acts of locking doors and windows on leaving the home, using security locking devices and PIR activated external lighting among other facilities can prove their worth. One of the other cost-free systems is the highly recommended reciprocal arrangement of neighbours being prepared to keep watch on each others properties. Not only does it act as a protective measure but also increases the spirit of neighbourliness.
Recently there have been reports of residents in the area being disturbed by unknown individuals knocking on their windows after dark. Indications are that properties fronting onto pavements are most likely to be affected and that incidents are not thought to be criminally motivated. However the police are interested to hear from anyone who has experienced such disturbance (phone me on 01258 858878) and those who have committed such acts should be aware that steps are being taken to identify them.
On Saturday 17th December the police will be holding a Horse and Rural Watch surgery at both Pamphill from 10.30am until 12.00 noon and Shapwick from 1.00pm until until 2.30pm. Residents will be able to inspect some of the security devices available for purchase and to discuss matters of concern with PC Steve Brett and PCSO Joe Cherrett. In the meantime, as an ongoing exercise, both officers are attempting to contact as many residents as possible with a view to increasing Homewatch membership in the area.
During the early hours of 11th November 2011 a burglary took place in Sturminster Marshall whilst the lady owner of the property was in residence. Due to the nature of the incident, the police helicopter was summoned and many residents will no doubt have been awakened by the sound of its engines. Unfortunately, it has been reported that one resident of the village expressed disapproval by directing a torch beam at the helicopter and then followed up by using a 999 call to complain. Both acts are contrary to the law insofar as directing a beam of light at any aircraft contravenes CAP 393 Air Navigation Act Organisation and Regulations Part 28 Section 222 which is intended to protect the safety of flight crew, and the use of the emergency telephone number 999 for non-emergency issues is equally prohibited. Helicopters represent a valuable tool in terms of certain aspects of crime and I am assured by the police that their high operating costs ensure that they are never used without full justification. The police regret that they may sometimes be put to use during unsociable hours but hope that such inconvenience may be balanced with the knowledge that they are operating with the best interests of residents in mind.
Those who enjoy the facilities available at the Old School and particularly those with impaired mobility, will be pleased to learn that work will soon commence on the resurfacing of the car park and drainage system to eliminate ponding. In addition, the external doors are to be replaced with new to improve wheel chair access. Thanks are due to Messrs Viridor and the Talbot Village Trust for their valued contributions towards the cost of the work.
On a note of sadness, we recently heard of the passing of Mrs Shirley Leney, wife of the late Roger Leney who was well regarded for his valuable services to Homewatch in the Ward as well as to this country as a whole for his bravery during World War 2 as a Jedburgh radio operator for SOE in France.
What can we do for our village and our country!!
Geoff Thomas - Homewatch Coordinator
Tel: 01258 858878 EMail