Detectives in Worcester are releasing an E-fit of a man they would like to speak to in connection with a burglary. The incident happened on Monday, 19 March between 5pm and 5.15pm when a house on Ronkswood Crescent was broken into via a rear patio door.
Various items of jewellery including a gold DKNY watch, silver locket, Pandora bracelet with four charms and an 18 carat gold sapphire and diamond ring were stolen during the burglary.
Detective Constable Pete Ryland from Worcester CID said: "This E-fit is of a man seen in the vicinity of the house on the day the burglary was committed. He is described as being aged 24 to 25, of a slim build, 5ft 8 ins tall and is thought to have a turned in tooth on the right hand side of his mouth. "If you recognise this image as yourself please contact police so that we can eliminate you from our enquiries. "We would also ask anyone who knows or thinks they know who this man is to call us with the details."
Anyone with information about this incident can call DC Ryland on 0300 333 3000, quoting 555S 190312 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Tuesday, 17 April 2012
Police are warning people in Worcestershire to be extra vigilant after they recovered hundreds of fake charity clothes collection bags. The bags, which are delivered to homes so people can fill them with unwanted clothes, shoes and household items, claimed to be raising money for the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire Air Ambulance: this body doesn't exist. The Air Ambulance for Gloucestershire is the Great Western Air Ambulance and Worcestershire is covered by the Midlands Air Ambulance.
A West Mercia Police Spokesman said: "Maps recovered from the vehicle suggest that these bags had been distributed in Evesham, Pershore, Worcester and Stourport. "I suggest residents from those areas take care with any bags left at their homes. If you want your donations to go to the right place then please take the time to double check and if you are in any doubt then contact the charity directly, which will be able to confirm if the bags are genuine."
Following a stop-check of a car in Worcester on Sunday (1 April), two men aged 27 and 37 were arrested on suspicion of fraud in a joint operation by West Mercia Police and Gloucestershire Constabulary. They have both been released on police bail pending further inquiries by Gloucestershire Constabulary.
Re-issued: 16 April 2012
A presentation in Fladbury Village Hall on Monday evening, 16th April at 7.30pm by our 'Village Bobby", PC David Shortell, and our Village Community Support Officer, Simon Hall, both hope to be present and to meet residents.
The main purpose of the evening is to receive a presentation from David Hemming, Wychavon District Council's "Community Safety Manager" who will give us useful advice and will also demonstrate a selection of items to make our homes, family and property more secure.
I do hope to see you there on Monday evening - Please come !
Issued: Saturday, 14 April 2012
Police Appeal To Trace Man After Woman Found Dead In Worcester.
William CumminsWest Mercia Police has launched a murder investigation following the discovery of a woman's body at her home in Gresham Road, Worcester, on Thursday 12 April.
Neighbours alerted police after reports that Jacqueline Harrison aged 47 had not been seen for some days. Officers found her deceased at the home address on Thursday evening (12 April) and a post mortem examination took place yesterday (Fri 13 April). This examination revealed that Ms Harrison had sustained assault injuries.
Detective Inspector Gerry Smith, from the Operation Mallard incident room at Worcester police station, said: "We are keen to trace 51 year old William Cummins who knew Jacqueline Harrison. We know he has recently been in the Kent and Dorset areas of the country and we want the public to help us trace this man. If you see Mr Cummins do not approach him but dial 999 as soon as possible. We have officers in the Weymouth area of Dorset making enquiries.
"We are also very interested to speak to anyone who saw Jacqueline in the last week of March or first week of April. If you knew Jacqueline or have any information which you think could help the police investigation then please come forward and speak to detectives at Worcester by dialling 101."
William Cummins is described as a white man with brown eyes and short brown hair. He is 5ft 6 inches tall and smokes. He may be untidy in appearance and can be aggressive. Mr Cummins has lived in the Sparkhill and Sparkbrook areas of Birmingham but has been visiting the Kent and Weymouth areas in a bid to trace a family member.
Anyone who has information for West Mercia Police should call 101 and ask for the Operation Mallard incident room.
Issued: Saturday 14 April 2012
PC Darryn Van Rooyen with property waiting to be claimedIs your child missing this camera?Is this your phone still in itDoes this look familiar?A Worcester police officer is trying to trace the owners of a number of items which are believed to be stolen. PC Darryn Van Rooyen is holding an 'open evening' between 6pm and 7pm on Thursday, April 19 at Castle Street police station for anyone who can identify the property as belonging to them.
"Last month we seized numerous items from a city centre property," says PC Van Rooyen. He adds: "An address was searched after the man living there was arrested on 14 March on Portland Street on suspicion of going equipped. He was also arrested on suspicion of the theft from a motor vehicle on Camp Hill Road the previous month." It is believed many of the items recovered at the address may have come from numerous car break-ins across the city.
PC Van Rooyen explains: "We believe that these items may be from thefts which happened in mid-February - possibly in the vicinity of the Diglis area of the city - and we have managed to identify some, but not all of the owners of the items we found at the property. "We now have more than 25 items outstanding, including sunglasses, sat navs, mobile phones, handheld computers, watches and mp3 players. Unfortunately, these outstanding items have not been reported to us as stolen or been property marked in anyway and we are keen to reunite them with their owners. "So if you had your car broken into and didn't tell us about it, or perhaps some of your belongings vanished from your vehicle but you didn't think anything of it at the time, then please feel free to come to the ˆîopen evening' to see if any of these items are yours. "Importantly, if you wish to claim an item, you must be able to tell us something about it which clearly identifies it as yours. It may relate to a number in a phone, a location stored on a sat nav or where there is a scratch on the lens of a pair of sunglasses. Either way, you must have some specific information relating to the item which means it belongs to you."
If you cannot come to Castle Street on April 19, but think that some of the unidentified property may be yours, please call PC Van Rooyen on 0300 333 3000 quoting log number 37S 140312.
A man in his 30s who was arrested on suspicion of going equipped and theft from a motor vehicle has been released on police bail while officers continue their inquiries.
Issued: Wednesday, 11 April 2012
Police are warning people in Worcestershire to be extra vigilant after they recovered hundreds of fake charity clothes collection bags. The bags, which are delivered to homes so people can fill them with unwanted clothes, shoes and household items, claimed to be raising money for the Gloucestershire and Worcestershire Air Ambulance: this body doesn't exist. The Air Ambulance for Gloucestershire is the Great Western Air Ambulance and Worcestershire is covered by the Midlands Air Ambulance.
A West Mercia Police Spokesman said: "Maps recovered from the vehicle suggest that these bags had been distributed in Evesham, Pershore, Worcester and Stourport. "I suggest residents from those areas take care with any bags left at their homes. If you want your donations to go to the right place then please take the time to double check and if you are in any doubt then contact the charity directly, which will be able to confirm if the bags are genuine."
Following a stop-check of a car in Worcester on Sunday (1 April), two men aged 27 and 37 were arrested on suspicion of fraud in a joint operation by West Mercia Police and Gloucestershire Constabulary. They have both been released on police bail pending further inquiries by Gloucestershire Constabulary.
Issued: Thursday 5 April 2012
Police Issue Warning After Insecure Homes Burgled In Wychavon
With British Summer Time officially beginning this Sunday, police in south Worcestershire are reminding people to keep doors and windows locked if they want to protect their homes from opportunistic thieves.The warning comes after three properties in the Wychavon district were burgled last weekend after being left insecure.
On Saturday, 17 March between 10am and 4pm, items of jewellery were stolen from a house on Bretforton Road in Badsey. The house was entered via a back door, which had been left unlocked while the owner was in the garden.
On the same day, between 4.30pm and 10pm, a house on Berry Lane in Upton Warren was entered through an unlocked door and an iPad was stolen from the conservatory.
Later on that day, some time between 7.30pm and 11pm, a house on Woodmans Green in Droitwich was also entered via an unlocked door. On this occasion, a lady's handbag containing a purse and a Samsung phone was stolen from the kitchen table.
Detective Inspector Pete Andrews from Worcester CID said: "As we head into a warmer season with the clocks going forward on Sunday, people may start leaving open their doors and windows to let the fresh air into their homes.
"Temperatures across south Worcestershire are expected to reach about 17 degrees Celsius this weekend and it's also the time of year when people start going into their gardens to get them ready for the summer.
"While these activities are a welcome sign that winter is over, they can also provide thieves with an easy opportunity to enter your home and take your belongings.
"Don't let burglars spoil this time of year for you by giving them the chance to walk into your home. Remember to lock doors when you're out in the garden and if you do open a window, don't forget to shut it again if you leave the house.
"Less than one percent of homes are burgled each year across the West Mercia force area, but people still need to remain vigilant and take steps to protect their homes against opportunistic thieves.
"I would also like to appeal to anyone who knows anything about the three burglaries mentioned in this press release to contact us as soon as possible." Anyone with information about these incidents can call DI Andrews on 0300 333 3000, quoting 532S 170312 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Friday, 23 March 2012
Theft From Evesham Town Centre Church
Officers investigating the theft of lead from the roof of a church in the centre of Evesham are appealing for witnesses.
Ten sheets of lead were taken from the Church of All Saints in Market Place between 5pm yesterday (Tuesday, 20 March) and just before 10.45am today (Wednesday, 21 March).
Thieves broke the lock on the church gates in order to get onto the site and once on the roof, cut the large sheets off and threw them to the ground below.
PC Bruce Powell from Evesham police station said: "This is an appalling theft from a community building, which has only just had the roof replaced following a previous theft.
"The thieves will probably only get around £500 for what they have taken, but it will cost the church over £6,000 to replace the large amount of lead stolen.
"We know from the scene that whoever is responsible for carrying out this crime would have used a vehicle. I would appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time of the theft and saw any vans or trucks parked at the church - or anyone on the roof - to contact us as soon as possible."
Anyone with information about this incident can call PC Powell on 0300 333 3000, quoting 51N 210312 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Wednesday, 21 March 2012
Group Arrested Over Distraction Thefts
Police have arrested nine people in Worcestershire in relation to distraction thefts in the county and Wales.
The group - five women and four men - were arrested yesterday by officers from the Central Motorway Police Group at Frankley Services and taken into custody at Worcester and Kidderminster police stations.
One of the women has been arrested in relation to a distraction theft at Eckington Stores near Pershore on Wednesday, 9 November and will also be questioned about a linked incident at The Riflemans Arms in Droitwich on Tuesday, 8 November. (The details are below.)
She will remain in custody in Worcester while the other eight suspects will be transferred to South Wales Police to be questioned about similar crimes in their area.
Detective Inspector Pete Andrews of Worcester CID said: "Distraction thefts have become an increasing problem nationally and in Worcestershire in recent years. I hope these arrests by our colleagues at CMPG could lead to some useful information about the groups involved."
At Eckington Stores, three women and a man entered the shop and whilst the group were being served, a member of staff found one woman described as heavily pregnant in a private hallway near the shop's office.
She asked to use the bathroom and had a conversation with the shop worker. It is believed this may have been used as a technique to distract him as a second woman was then found by another member of staff in the hallway leading to the office.
The woman was escorted back into the shop and the whole group then left. After they had gone, it was discovered a safe containing a quantity of cash had been stolen from the office.
At The Riflemans Arms, a group of at least five people visited the pub and ordered numerous drinks from bar staff, keeping staff busy during their stay.
After the party had left, it was discovered that the upstairs residential area of the pub had been burgled and a large amount of cash and various items of gold jewellery stolen.
Issued: Friday 16 March 2012
The UK Cards Association is advising customers to be aware of a new variation on an old style scam that involves people being telephoned by fraudsters and duped into handing over their debit or credit card, and revealing their PIN.
How does the scam happen?
A fraudster rings you, claiming to be from your bank, saying their systems have spotted a fraudulent payment on your card or that your card is due to expire and needs replacing. You may be asked to ring back using the phone number on the back of your card - which further convinces you the call is genuine. However, the criminal keeps the line open at their end so, when you make the call, you are unknowingly connected straight back to the fraudster.
Then, by seeming to offer assistance, the fraudster tries to gain your trust. In most cases you are asked to 'cancel' your existing card or 'activate' or 'authorise' a replacement card by keying your PIN into your phone's handset.
The fraudster then poses as a bank representative to pick up your card from your home, sometimes giving you a replacement card, which is a fake. In some cases a genuine courier company is hired to pick up the card, which the victim has been asked to place into an envelope.
Once they have your card and PIN the fraudster uses them to spend your money. A variation of the scam involves the fraudster ringing a prospective victim and claiming to be from the police - again with the aim of going to the victim's home to collect the card and PIN.
What can I do to avoid this scam? Remember this advice:
Your bank or the police will NEVER ring you and tell you that they are coming to your home to pick up your card, so never hand it over to anyone who comes to collect it.
Your bank will NEVER ask you to authorise anything by entering your PIN into the telephone.
NEVER share your PIN with anyone - the only times you should use your PIN is at a cash machine or when you use a shop's chip and PIN machine.
What should I do if I think I may have been the victim of a fraud or scam? If you think you have been the victim of a fraud or scam of this nature you should call your bank or card company immediately.
Visit www.financialfraudaction.org.uk for more information.
Please make a note in your diary :
There will be a Public Meeting in Fladbury Village Hall at 7.30pm on Monday, 16th April - Neighbourhood Watch - "BE SAFE & KEEP SAFE"
Presentation by Wychavon's "Community Safety Manager", David Hemming
with demonstration of various aids to keep your home, contents and occupants secure.
All are welcome - please advise your neighbours, and encourage them to attend.
Police in Evesham are appealing for witnesses to a theft which happened in the car park of Tesco on Worcester Road.
The incident happened on Tuesday, 28 February at around 2.30pm in the disabled parking area near the front entrance of the store.
An elderly woman had her purse stolen from the back seat of her car as she was distracted by a woman holding a map and asking for directions.
It is thought the offenders may have followed the victim around the store and saw her enter her pin number at the check out, as her bank cards were later used to withdraw cash and make purchases.
The woman who stopped the victim and asked for directions is described as white, believed to be from abroad and was wearing a hat.
PC Andrew Smith from Evesham police station said: "I would appeal to anyone who was at the store at the time of the offence and remembers either being approached by a woman with a map or saw her approach others, to get in touch. Also, I would encourage shoppers to remain vigilant if someone you don't know asks for directions - especially when you are absorbed in other activities such as loading the car with shopping. Although this is a relatively isolated incident, there have been others in the past and I urge people not to make themselves vulnerable by keeping an eye on their belongings at all times and - if you do help a stranger with directions - ensuring your valuables are secure."
Anyone with information about this incident can call PC Smith on 0300 333 3000, quoting 637S 280212 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Issued: Monday, 05 March 2012
West Mercia Police has suggested that the following website may be of interest: http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/
Brian Carter
Back in February we circulated a message re suspicious door-to-door callers, claiming to be reformed ex-offenders and also mentioning issues of Pedlars Certificates etc. That message has sparked a lot of interest within Neighbourhood Watch, and I have received various queries about the legalities around Pedlars Certificates. Sgt Bean, here at Worcester has prepared the following advice, for those of you who would like to know more about the legalities of Pedlars Certificates:
The legalities of Pedlars licences: Held under the Pedlars Act 1871, firstly what's a Pedlar?
The term pedlar means "any hawker, pedlar, petty chapman, tinker, caster of metals, or other person who, without any horse or other beast bearing or drawing burden, travels and trades on foot and goes from town to town or to other men's houses, carrying to sell or exposing for sale any goods, wares, or merchandise, or procuring orders for goods, wares, or merchandise immediately to be delivered." (In short it covers people, despite the archaic language, that "trades on foot", carrying a bag without any other means of carrying their items for sale. They can also "PROCURE" that means take, for instance, orders by touting a catalogue and showing images of goods for delivery, not to be mixed up with the Betterware and Avon catalogues as they are delivered and left but subsequently later collected)
So what is needed to be a Pedlar?
Section 5 of the Pedlars Act 1871 specifies the procedure and conditions to obtain a pedlar's certificate: in short they are issued by a Chief Police officer of a Force area where the pedlar has resided for 1 month prior to his application for a licence. The Candidate should fall into the following categories 1) Over 17 years of age. 2) A person of good character 3) In good faith intends to carry out the trade of a Pedlar. (Note once obtained in one force area they can trade out of that force area under Section 2 of the Act).
How long do the licences last for?
That's an easy one - 1 Year from the date of application and should be renewed yearly on the Polices receipt of the previous years licence (so if anyone sell door to door, saying they've applied for their new one and using their old one until it arrives they're fibbing!)
What does a Pedlars licence look like?
Form B, Form of Pedlar's Certificate
In pursuance of the Pedlars Act, 1871, I certify that A.B. (name of applicant) of .. .. .. .. in the county of .. .. .. .. aged .. .. years, is hereby authorized to act as a pedlar within the .. .. .. .. police area (see note below) for a year from the date of this certificate. (To be altered, if necessary, to correspond to any order of the Secretary of State or Department for Social Development as to time of expiration of licenses.) Certified this .. .. .. .. day of .. .. .. A.D. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. (Signed) (Here insert name and description of the officer signing the certificate.)
The certificate will expire on the .. .. day of .. .., A.D.
What do I need to ask for?
Pedlars need to show their licence when asked to do so if you are of the following category:
It is an offence under Section 17 of the Act to fail to do this and is a summary offence, therefore best left to the Police to deal with, I would no t advise NHW to enquire into Pedlars identities in the street as technically they would not fall into such a category.
Should we burn Pedlars at the stake like witches?
Something I would avoid, although Pedlars are a great annoyance and inconvenience to house holders and the thought of "reformed criminals" holding pedlars licences under the term Nottingham Knockers (I still haven't got to the bottom of where this term originated however some reference purport it comes from a scam where pedlars from Nottingham tried to tug on the heart strings of their intended sales by stating they were "reformed criminals trying to turn their lives around." which would explain under why this conflicts with part 2, of section 5 where they should be of good character?1?!) isn't comforting. A great deal of reports to the police around Nottingham knockers would seem to originate from the abrupt manner in which the pedlars have spoken to the occupants, however sometimes the person reporting has possibly antagonised the situation by their robust handling of the Pedlar in the first instance. My advice would be when confronted with a door to door pedlar, be polite, but state that you don't intend to buy anything and empathetically wishing them luck for the rest of the day. Contact the Police and we are happy to sent an available patrol to the area to verify the Pedlars details and licence dealing with any offences present under the Pedlars act.
Does the Presence of a Pedlar in the area mean an increase in Burglaries?
There is no statistical evidence to support this, however as always forewarned is forearmed and Criminals will use any activity or guise to further their acquisitive crime therefore posing as a door to door sales person is a tactic that has been employed by them in the past. If in doubt contact the Police and we will investigate.
Here's a useful snippet West Mercia Published in the Kidderminster Shuttle over the Christmas period 2011:
The Crime Risk Advisor at the police gave the following advice.
When answering the door, use a chain, intercom or door viewer. You do not have to open the door if you don't want to. People selling door to door need a pedlars certificate and if somebody calls uninvited selling goods, you can ask to see their pedlars certificate. If it sounds too good to be true it usually is. If you need any work done, use the Worcestershire County Council approved trader scheme (Trader Register) 01905 765394 e-mail: tradingstandards@worcestershire.gov.uk or recommendations from friends and family.
Bogus callers often claim to be from a utility company such as the 'water board' which no longer exists, or the council and insist on coming inside to check something out. Don't let them in and call the police immediately on 101.
Callers from utility companies, the council etc will always have an identity card. We w ould urge everyone to check it carefully and not to give out any personal information or bank details.
Police and partner agencies dealt with drivers for a variety of offences in an operation held in Malvern yesterday to target those involved in metal thefts. Officers stop-checked working vehicles in the town in the morning until 1pm, while others visited scrapyards in the area to check on their operations. Several agencies worked together at the stop check operation, which took place at the Spring Lane industrial park, including VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency), the Environment Agency, Malvern Hills District Council's Regulatory Services and Western Power. 30 vehicles were stopped and were the majority were found to be acting legitimately a number were dealt with for a variety of offences. These include:
A vehicle was found to be using red diesel and the driver fined £500; A trader was fined £300 for operating without a waste carriers licence; Six vehicles were dealt with for having defective parts, including brakes, lights and tyres. One was also found to be driving without insurance or the correct driving licence.
Accompanied by colleagues from Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs and the Environment Agency, officers visited two scrapyards in the area. One was storing tyres without the correct authority and will be dealt with by the EA while suspicious copper cabling was found at the other. This action follows a similar operation in Worcester, conducted at the Blackpole Trading Estate in January, which led to a number of arrests and fines.
PC Cliff Green, who organised the operation, said: "West Mercia Police takes the theft of scrap metal seriously; we will continue to be proactive in tackling the problem and prosecuting those involved. "We are committed to working with our partners as the best response to dealing with those unscrupulous individuals and traders who continue to deal in the illegal trade connected to all metal thefts. "We are regularly visiting scrap metal dealers to ensure they comply with the regulations, to assist them with keeping their businesses legal and making it difficult for offenders to have an outlet for stolen property. "As part of our continuing efforts to tackle metal thefts, further checks on vehicles and dealers will take place across Worcestershire in the coming months."
Issued: Friday 24 February 2012
This afternoon I saw two young men come up the track between houses in Middle Lane (which is a private track, although fairly easy to access from the bottom). They were looking around as they walked and when they drew level with the bottom of no 4's garden, one of them pulled out a camera and took a photo of the back of no 4 (and also possibly another house). They carried on up the track, over the gate and into Middle Lane, 'checking out' houses as they went and then went up the footpath that runs between Middle Lane and Blacksmith's Lane behind Lower Croft.
I reported it to the police and one of our local officers Simon Hall has just paid a visit and is driving round the area to see if he can spot them. He said he'd give us an update if he could. People might want to be extra vigilant and maybe something should be put on the website?
We tried to get a photo of them before they disappeared, but only succeeded in getting a grainy rear view. They were young white males, one was medium height and wearing a white hooded jacket with the hood up and a blue waterproof on top. The other was slightly shorter, wearing a dark blue waterproof jacket with the hood up, black gloves and glasses. Not brilliant descriptions, I know but you might have seen something.
Please be vigilant but beware of approaching strangers, and report any suspicious incidents to t he police call centre, via the switchboard on the non-emergency number, 101, or if a crime is thought to be in progress dial 999.
I am circulating this message across South Worcestershire to make you aware of a possible new series of burglaries.
We have seen previous spates of burglaries that are believed to be linked. They generally occur in residential areas (as opposed to isolated areas), target unoccupied premises, generally take place at approx 1500-200hrs and usually items such as jewellery are taken.
The last such spate ended last autumn, but we have possibly seen the start of another spate in recent days with burglaries in Worcester (Wheatfield Ave, 11th/12th Feb, incident ref 210-S-120212) and two incidents in Broadway (Springfield Lane, between Sat 11th-Sun 19th Feb, incident ref 489-S-190212 / Evesham Road, between Sun 12th and Tues 14th, incident ref 391-S-140212), which again are believed to be linked.
Therefore, please make your readers aware and be mindful of any such suspicious activity. Please report any suspicious incidents to t he police call centre, via the switchboard on the non-emergency number, 101, or if a crime is thought to be in progress dial 999.
Police area appealing for witnesses after a robbery took place in Evesham in the early hours of Sunday morning (12 February).
At around 3.15am, two women who were in their 20s and 30s and were both wearing black clothing, were walking home linked armed-in-arm along Elm Road. They were approached by a man on the corner of Coronation Street who grabbed hold of the straps on one of their handbags and tried to take it from her. A tussle ensued between them, which caused both women to fall to the floor, and he ran off with the bag in the direction of Port Street.
The handbag is pink faux leather with a dark suede edge at the top of the bag and 5in by 10 inch in size with a silver-coloured clasp.
The robber was described as being white, approximately 6ft tall, of slim build and aged approximately 20 to 25 years old. He was wearing black trousers and either a dark brown or black coat with a grey hood.
PC Erica Timbrell of Evesham Police Station said: "We believe this man may have followed his victims along Port Street and Elm Road before confronting them on the corner of Elm Road and Coronation Street. "If anyone saw this man or recognises his description, then please contact me. I would also like to know if anyone has found a discarded handbag."
PC Timbrell can be contacted via the non-emergency police number 101 or information can be passed on anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Hi, this year looks set to be a busy year with events in the run up to the Queens Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics. I have sent you a link to our website which will give advice and guidance regarding street parties/events, who to contact and an application for road closures. If you are thinking of celebrating with an event or perhaps some of your residents need information and guidance for their street parties then please feel free to pass this link to them. You can also be directed to this information from the front page of the Wychavon website.
Go to http://www.wychavon.gov.uk/cms/community-and-living/community-development/help-and-guidance/event-and-street-party-guidance.aspx for more information. (They haven't heard of tiny url!)
Also, if you are interested, I have added a link below regarding an invitation to the lighting of beacons for the diamond jubilee. It is planned that there will be 2,012 beacons throughout the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, UK overseas Territories and the Commonwealth. Councils and town/parish councils have been invited to take part in the event on Monday 4th June between 10pm and 10.30pm. The beacons can be linked to a celebration event in a town or a village so is ideal for the thousand of churches, towns, parish and community councils throughout the nation, providing them with a simple, but cost effective event. The deadline for this is 12th March 2012. Go to http://www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk/Diamond_Jubilee_Beacons/DOWNLOAD.html
West Mercia Police Chief Constable David Shaw will be taking part in a web chat next week to answer questions from the public. The event will take place on Wednesday 15 February from 6.30pm and online users can take part by logging on to www.westmercia.police.uk/webchat/
While online, Mr Shaw will 'chat' with the public and take questions on a variety of issues. He said: "It is a very important part of my job to listen to the people we serve, to understand their thoughts and concerns, and to be held accountable for the service we deliver.
"It is also an ideal opportunity for me to talk about my plans for policing in the area and I thoroughly look forward to a lively and interesting set of questions and views."
People who are not able to go online between 6.30pm and 8.30pm on Wednesday 15 February can leave their questions for the Chief in advance on the force Facebook page or on Twitter (@westmerciapolice). You can also read a transcript of the web chat after the event via the force website.
Mr Shaw will try to answer as many questions as time allows or follow them up afterwards. He will not, however, be able to answer questions about specific crimes or ongoing court cases but will ensure any queries received are passed on to the appropriate policing unit.
Ahead of the event, you can also log onto www.westmercia.police.uk/webchat/ to sign up for a reminder email.
You will be aware of the ongoing metal thefts which have been occurring nationwide. There has been a specific local issue recently in Malvern Hills and Wychavon district areas of thefts of metal drain covers and drain gullies. These have often occured in the evening/overnight and the people involved are dressed in high vis jackets etc, so to the casual observer it may falsely appear that they are legitimately carrying out work, when they are not legitimate at all. It is very rare for the Council's Highways Dept to be out at such hours, so any such activity in the evening/overnight should be considered suspicious.
Please make your members aware and report any sightings of such activity to the police call centre, via the switchboard on the new non-emergency number 101.
4x4 Motorists Urged To Take On Winter Weather Advice - Published on behalf of the Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia.
Despite warnings last week of the onset of snow and ice causing challenging road conditions in places, West Mercia Police have still seen a number of road traffic collisions over the weekend that have been attributed to the bad weather.
With freezing fog, heavy frosts and icy conditions still forecast over the coming week, the Partnership and West Mercia Police wish to remind people to exercise caution when travelling on affected routes throughout the region.
A number of collisions over the weekend have involved 4x4 vehicles, which raises the issue that even if motorists beli eve they have a vehicle that will cope with harsher weather; driving on icy roads is still challenging and stopping times and distances are greatly increased compared to those in finer weather no matter what car you are driving.
Examples of collisions that have occurred in the bad weather over the weekend include a written-off Shogun, a Land Rover Discovery that left the road and ended up on its roof and a Freelander 4x4 which skidded on the road and collided into someone's house.
Vicki Bristow, Communications Manager for the Partnership says; "Widespread icy roads and freezing fog are still making driving conditions hazardous in some places. Our advice if travelling is to check local weather forecasts and road conditions before setting off and ensure any ice is removed from windows, mirrors and lights so you have good visibility.
"It is important to drive smoothly and avoid braking sharply and accelerating quickly as this could lead to whe els locking or spinning. Keep well back from the vehicle in front to allow plenty of time to slow down and always look as far ahead as possible to anticipate what other road users might do.
"Winter drivers need to use their eyes more effectively; drive carefully and smoothly, avoiding harsh accelerating and braking regardless of whether your vehicle is a 4x4 or not."
Remember! Four wheel drive doesn't exempt you from Newton's laws.
Child Attack Rumours In Worcester Are Untrue, Say West Mercia Police
West Mercia Police is reassuring parents in Worcester that rumours of a number of attempts to abduct children in the city are untrue.
There was a single confirmed incident near Dines Green School on Monday 16 January of a man trying to grab a girl from the school as she walked home, after which a man was arrested and remains on police bail while the incident is investigated.
However, since then there have been rumours circulating among parents via text, email and social media of numerous similar incidents. These include up to four attempted abductions near Nunnery Wood School, a man in a silver car approaching children in the Rainbow Hill area and a woman being abducted in a silver car and raped.
Inspector Janet Heritage, who leads local policing in Worcester, said: "I can confirm that none of the rumours about alleged child abductions or rapes being circulated around Worcester are true.
"We had one genuine report near Dines Green School last month and on that occasion we let the public know the details as soon as we could, worked closely with the school to deal with any concerns from parents and put on extra patrols to reassure the community.
"Since then, we have not had a single confirmed report of any similar incidents.
"I am worried that parents, and children in particular, are becoming unnecessarily fearful because of these rumours. We are receiving reports of children experiencing suspicious behaviour; we investigate all calls of this nature, however we are finding that the circumstances are not as they may have feared, or are completely innocent.
"While it is important that children are educated about 'stranger danger' and should be wary of being approached by adults they don't know, the current atmosphere in Worcester seems to be scaring local children unnecessarily and it needs to stop.
"Local policing officers will be contacting schools about the current rumours and we will be making sure this message is given to parents through official channels.
"If any parents continue to be worried about any rumours they hear, then I urge them to contact West Mercia Police. Get in touch with your local policing team, contact us via Twitter or Facebook or you can always phone us on 101."
In early January two men in white Transit type van stole aluminium wheelchair ramps from the front of a hour in Field Barn Lane.
Maybe the thief will learn how mean he has been to take these from a disabled person when he perhaps becomes a wheelchair user later in life.
Reported by a Fladbury resident:
"We have just had a little girl come to the door, aged perhaps seven or eight, with lady in the shadows described as Auntie. She sang a carol on her own and held a bucket containing coins -
What For? - The Children
What Organisation? - Birmingham Children's Hospital
What connection? - We have a cousin who will be in over Christmas
Not a collectors marked tin nor identification offered. Nice child, polite 'Auntie' in the shadows. It occurred to me, cynic that I am, that Fagin's protegees were probable also polite.
They may well be genuine, but no evidence was produced to support that. How sad to suspect everyone at Christmas, we gave something, where it will end up-who knows!"
If you are approached, we suggest that you try to establish the credentials and identity of callers - please be very wary and, if possible, warn vulnerable neighbours.
West Mercia Police is urging people not to leave presents under their Christmas trees until the last minute in order to avoid becoming a target for burglars.
The advice is part of the force's annual Operation Christmas Presence, which aims to make towns and cities safer over the holidays, by having more officers on the street and issuing simple crime prevention tips to members of the public. "Unfortunately, a huge pile of presents und er a Christmas tree is extremely attractive to burglars," said Superintendent Mark Travis - the lead officer for Operation Christmas Presence.
Although burglary remains relatively low - less than one per cent of homes across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire are broken into each year - opportunistic thieves are active at this time of year and will be looking for an easy steal. Supt Travis added: "I would advise people not to put gifts in a place where they will be easily seen through a window by potential thieves. Don't store presents in sheds and garages in the run up to Christmas, but if you must, ensure your outbuildings are kept locked and secure. "This week we will also see the shortest day of the year meaning that nights are longer. This in itself can give thieves an advantage as an unlit house, which appears to be empty, can be a target for thieves. "A well-lit home gives the impression that som eone is in, so invest in timer switches to turn lights on while you are out. Low-energy or dusk to dawn sensor light bulbs are also a good idea, as you can make savings on energy and costs too. "Once Christmas is over, take any boxes from valuable gifts to your nearest household waste site rather than leaving them outside for roadside bin collection so as not to advertise new purchases to potential thieves.
By making just a few simple changes, you can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime and have a safe and enjoyable Christmas.
The Vale of Evesham SEN School are having a school Reunion at the Falcolns Bar Warterside (probably 'Flacons Bar, behind the Northwick Hotel, Waterside) Evesham on the 21st April at 6 pm for former pupils and Staff who were at the Vale of Evesham SEN School. For details see the Schools Group Facebook Page
Thousands Of People Pick Up The Phone To Dial 101
The new non-emergency number, 101, is being hailed a success after over 7,400 people used it to call West Mercia Police in the first month of its launch (8 November - 8 December). The number was introduced to give the public one memorable number, making it easier for them to report crime and ease the pressure on the 999 system. Since its introduction, around 10 per cent of the non-emergency calls now received by the force's control room are from people who have dialled 101.
Head of Operational Support Command, Chief Superintendent Trevor Albutt said: "Although it is still very early days, we are really pleased with the way 101 has been accepted by the public. "One in ten non-emergency calls we now receive are through 101, which is a good start considering we are the fourth largest force geographically and it can take some time for messages to filter out to the many harder to reach, rural communities in our area. "The figures so far also indicate that there has been a slight reduction in the number of 999 calls to us, which shows that people are thinking before they dial. "I would like to remind those who are not already aware, that we do have a new number they can call to report non-emergencies - 101. "This can be used when reporting incidents such as: if your car has been stolen; if your property has been damaged; where you suspect drug use or dealing or to report a minor traffic collision. "Our current number - 0300 333 3000 - is still up and running as a general switchboard number, but we would hope that in the future all incidents, non-urgent in nature will be received via 101."
To find out more about 101 and when to use it visit http://www.westmercia.police.uk/.
In an emergency, always call 999 if there is a crime in progress, if someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.
Arrests Made As Police Clamp Down On Metal Thefts
Five people have been arrested as part of a national day of action (Wednesday, 14 December) to tackle metal thefts.
Officers visited 30 scrap metal dealers across the West Mercia force area as part of the initiative, as well as carrying out pre-planned arrests and executing warrants at properties believed to be used by thieves. Three men were arrested seperately in Droitwich, Telford and Ludlow on suspicion of theft after being found in possession of metal which was believed to have been stolen. A further two men were arrested in Whitchurch on suspicion of handling stolen goods and for going equipped after being found with metal on them and tool s thought to be involved in the theft of metal. All five have been released on police bail.
Following visits to scrap metal dealers in Herefordshire and Telford & Wrekin, two tonnes of stolen electrical cable, stolen optical fibre, property belonging to Network Rail and Western Power, and items that had been coated in Smartwater were all seized. Detective Sergeant Dave Clews from the Force Intelligence Bureau was in charge of the operation. He said: "Together with a variety of partner agencies, West Mercia Police officers visited scrap metal dealers to give further guidance on book keeping and what to look out for when people bring metal into their yards.
"Some dealers have shown administration improvements since previous visits, but there are still a minority of metal recyclers who knowingly operate outside the law. "As part of the day we also executed a warrant at a property in the Malvern area and found a quantity of stolen cable and also seized a vehicle which had been used in criminality. "Metal thieves cause misery for countless thousands of people across the country, whether through stolen lead from roofs, stolen railway cable resulting in delays and cancellations or stolen power cable causing widespread power loss. "Metal theft is not a victimless crime and has a negative impact upon the communities in which we live. "I hope this operation sends a clear message to anyone involved in this type of crime that we will act on the information we receive and come after you if we suspect you are involved in the theft of metal."
Anyone with information about metal thefts can contact West Mercia Police directly on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Issued: Monday, 19 December 2011
West Mercia Police Authority have commenced consultation on their proposed policing priorities for 2012 and beyond. The document summarises the issues they have taken into account in developing the draft priorities, which reflect both local and national issues and community feedback. Details of how you can comment on the proposed policing priorities are included within the leaflet which is available online at www.westmerciapoliceauthority.gov.uk Please ensure that any comments you wish to make are submitted by Monday 30th January 2012. On Wednesday 11th January 2012 the Police Authority will be holding a live web cast, in front of an invited audience to answer questions on the draft policing priorities. This event is being held at County Hall in Worcester at 7:00PM. Audience places are limited therefore if you would like to be part of the audience you must email your name, contact details (and organisation if applicable) to: police.authority@westmercia.pnn.police.uk . Details of how you can pose a question to the panel if you are unable to attend and how to watch online are available on our website.
Fence damaged at the bottom of Main Street, joining Brook Lane - CAN YOU HELP IDENTIFY PLEASE?
I’Äôm not sure if you are able to help, but a car hit my fence that runs along the road side by the orchard last night (I believe), smashing the bottom rail, damaging others and pushing several posts over which reinforces my feeling on traffic speeds through the village, especially around the Brook Lane / Main Street bend. A hubcap was left on the verge from a ’ÄòCitroen’Äô and seems to be off the offending vehicle due to its condition and position. No paint is visible on the rails so colour indentification is not possible.
I was not expecting anybody to come forward and so rang the 101 number with a hope of making contact with our local bobby and I am being told this will happen. In the meantime, are you able to circulate this (neighbourhood watch etc.) and ask if anyone saw anything or knows of a Citroen locally which has clearly been in an incident of late, especially if it is missing a hubcap.
Earlier this week, a house in Field Barn Lane was broken into and items stolen. If you saw anyone behaving suspiciously, or have noticed any items from your own property are missing, please let the police know.
We should be vigilant and security aware at all times but at this time of year thieves may find particularly rich pickings as we prepare for the festive season.
You can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Further crime prevention advice is available on the West Mercia Police website at http://www.westmercia.police.uk/.
Please note that at this time of year we often see thefts of holly and mistletoe from rural areas, which is stolen to be sold on as Christmas decorations, and we have already seen a number of incidents in recent days.
Obviously many people who remove holly and mistletoe for sale do so with the land owners permission, and go on to sell it legitimately, however there are also a number of people who take it without permission.
Those of you who have holly or mistletoe on your land, please be aware of this. Please report any suspicious activity to the police call centre, via the switchboard, on 101.
Officers are appealing for information about the theft of a mini-digger from Greenhill in Evesham. The digger was kept in a gated compound and was being used for the road works which are currently being carried out along the Worcester Road.
It is believed it was stolen at around 6am on Monday, 28 November, when a witness heard the gates to the compound being moved, and the digger being started up.
PC Joanne Mayo-Evans from Evesham Police Station said: "This is a KX36/3 Kubota one-tonne digger in red, white and blue, and it is worth about £7,000.
"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time and saw it being driven away, or may have any information on its current whereabouts."
Anyone with information about this incident can contact PC Mayo-Evans on the non-emergency police number 101, quoting 95S 281111. They can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
As winter sets in, West Mercia Police is giving people advice on how they can avoid having their heating oil stolen.
With the cost of fuel remaining high, oil tanks have become a target for thieves. Last year there were 176* thefts recorded across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire where tanks were drained of oil.
Crime Risk Manager for the force PC Ian White has the following advice: "Hide your oil tank so you're not a target for thieves in the first place: if they can't see it, then they won't know it's there.
"Plant shrubs or install fences to conceal your tank from view - especially if you live close to the road. If your pr operty is more secluded, deter thieves from entering your property by installing lockable gates and maintaining any perimeter fencing.
"Check your tank's oil levels on a regular basis. Be extra vigilant of tankers or large vehicles close to your property. Note down any registration numbers of vehicles you think look suspicious and report them to the police.
"Where possible, install security lighting that covers your tank and the immediate surrounding area. If your tank is openly accessible to all, consider moving it to an area or building where it is better protected."
West Mercia Police has produced a leaflet detailing all this advice which is being handed out by a number of oil distribution companies at the same time as they make fuel deliveries to their customers.
Further crime prevention advice can also be found on the force website: http://www.westmercia.police.uk/
Three people have been arrested in Malvern on suspicion of two separate thefts where lead was stolen from buildings.
On Wednesday (30 November), a special constable on patrol in the town disturbed a theft in progress on Worcester Road. He came across lead being stolen from the roof of nearby Link Top News. A man ran off from the scene but lead that appeared to have been stolen from the shop was found in a car left at the scene.
The following day, three people were arrested at a property on Battisto Walk in Malvern in connection with the incident; a teenage boy, a man in his early 20s and a ma n in his late teens.
All three were also arrested on suspicion of theft in relation to lead being stolen from the roof of a house on Evesham Road in Wick on Thursday 10 November.
They have been released on police bail whilst investigations into the two offences continue.
With temperatures expected to drop below freezing overnight (Thursday, 1 December), West Mercia Police is reminding people in Worcestershire not to leave their cars unattended with engines running in the morning.
Every winter, the force receives a number of reports from drivers who have had their cars stolen after leaving their keys in the engine, whilst they wait in the warmth of their home for the car to heat up and defrost the windscreen.
Inspector David Coulson said: "You wouldn't usually leave your car unlocked, unattended and with the keys in it, so why risk it in winter for the sake of a few minutes to heat your car up? "That's all the time it takes for an opportunistic thief to drive off with your vehicle whilst you're waiting inside keeping warm.
"Despite repeated warnings, drivers continue to leave their cars unattended on driveways or on the street outside their properties in order to de-ice them.
"Nobody seems to think it's going to happen to them but every winter we receive calls from people who are caught unawares by car thieves when their backs are turned.
"It has been unseasonably warm this autumn, but now the icy weather is catching up with us, I would urge drivers to heed this advice."
Insp Coulson said drivers who ignore the warning are taking big risks. "Thieves will drive around residential areas looking for likely targets - when they spot a vehicle with its engine left running on a drive or outside a home, it's there for the taking.
"One person will be dropped off, gets into the target vehicle and simply drives away.
"Many of the vehicles are never recovered, and some - especially high value models such as Mercedes, BMW and Audi - may be shipped overseas.
"It is also worth remembering if your car is stolen when keys have been left in it, you may find your insurance will not cover you.
"Thieves see frosty mornings as an opportunity - don't give them the satisfaction by taking unnecessary risks."
Anyone with information about car thefts should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Further crime prevention advice is available on the West Mercia Police website at http://www.westmercia.police.uk/.
Officers from West Mercia Police are giving out timer switches in a bid to reduce the number of burglaries over the autumn months. With the clocks going back, the early onset of night gives thieves the opportunity to target unlit houses which appear to be empty.
Local Policing Teams across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire have been given 2,000 timer switches to hand out to people who are most at risk of being burgled.
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Edwards said: "Using burglary figures from the past few years, we have been able to identify the most vulnerable communities within the area we police.
"These figures identify particular neighbourhoods which have previously been targeted by burglars at this time of year and are 2.5 times more likely to be burgled than the average household in the West Mercia force area.
"We are giving out timer switches to people living in these neighbourhoods so they can deter burglars by lighting up their house when they are out and making it look like someone is at home.
"I would like to stress that less than one per cent of homes in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire are burgled every year, but taking simple steps such as using a timer switch can significantly lower your chances of being a victim of crime."
Local Policing Teams will be handing out the switches over the next few weeks as part of West Mercia Police's annual Lighten Up campaign. For those who would like a timer switch but do not receive one, they can be bought from most DIY stores for about £5.
Further home security advice is available on the force website www.west mercia.police.uk
Brian Carter,
Co-ordinator Fladbury Neighbourhood Watch
It is now going to be easier for you to contact West Mercia Police. From today, Tuesday, 8 November, you can dial 101 to report non-emergencies.
The three-digit number is to be used when reporting incidents which do not require an urgent response. It costs 15 pence to call 101 - no matter what time of the day you call or how long you stay on the phone for - and it is available 24 hours a day.
Head of Operational Support Command, Chief Superintendent Trevor Albutt said: "We hope that giving the public this memorable number will make it easier for people to report crime and also ease the pressure on the 999 system. Every day, we receive a number of inappropriate calls on 999 which stop or delay people with real emergencies getting through to us."
West Mercia Police aims to provide the highest levels of customer service and we hope that adopting 101 will allow us to better prioritise the most urgent calls for help.
Examples of where 101 should be dialled instead of 999 include:
If you are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, you can access the service via textphone on 18001 101.
Ch Supt Albutt added: "This new number is already being used by several police forces, and all 43 Chief Constables across England and Wales have agreed to introduce 101 as the national police non-emergency number. 101 is much easier to remember than the existing non-emergency number and the single rate for every call means people will know exac tly how much it costs to contact us. Our current number - 0300 333 3000 - will continue to operate as a general switchboard number which should be used to speak to a particular person or department, for example, if you want to speak to your Local Policing Team."
In an emergency, always call 999 if there is a crime in progress, if someone suspected of a crime is nearby, when there is danger to life or when violence is being used or threatened.
To find out more about 101 and when to use it visit http://www.westmercia.police.uk/
A Fladbury resident received a 'phone call yesterday from a man saying theye were going to be "in the area" and offered to call at the house to give a valuation on any Antiques or other items of value.
The resident was very suspicious and declined the offer, and ended the conversation. Unfortunately, neither a 'return 'phone number nor name of individual or company was obtained, so it cannot be reported to the Police, or credentials checked in any other way.
If you receive a similar call, please do try to get a 'phone number and name of company/individual (or try dialling 1471 after ending the call). Such calls may turn out to be genuine but, please, be very careful - generally speaking, you should not let a casual caller/stranger into your home.
Brian Carter,
Co-ordinator Fladbury Neighbourhood Watch
SCRAP METAL MERCHANTS ACT 1964
You may be familiar with the downsides of the terms of this Act. It allows the scrap metal 'industry' to be a cash business which is a great help to metal thieves - 'ask no questions tell no lies'. The 'cash for scrap' rules are a fantastic business opportunity for thieves when metal prices are so high. Little wonder churches are suffering so much lead theft and the railways even more copper theft. You may also have seen in the press recently reports of the theft of metal plaques from village war memorials.
A proposed amendment to the Act to prohibit cash transactions would make payment by cheque or directly into a bank account mandatory and would be a significant component in reducing metal theft. However other more pressing parliamentary business means that the quickest way for this Act to be amended is by a massive public lobby so it has to be debated by the House of Commons. The only other event that may get the Government to take the matter seriously as an emergency debate is if the rail networks grind to a halt or there is a terrible accident because signalling cable is stolen.
Please could you organise for everyone you know with an email address to support this petition to the Home Office, asking for this change to the Scrap Metal Merchants Act 1964. It needs to have 100,000 signaturies - currently it stands at about 20,000.
To vote just click http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/406 and then click 'Sign this petition'
Please do it!
Brian Carter,
Co-ordinator Fladbury Neighbourhood Watch
An elderly resident in Fladbury received 2 telephone calls this morning -
The first was a man who said he was bringing into Fladbury examples of 'Bath aids' today, and would like to demonstrate them.
The second was a woman who appeared to be a 'follow-up' to the first call, trying to make a timed appointment. The resident said she had no such need or requirement, and refused an appointment.
Unfortunately, no name of company nor telephone number was identified, so there is little that can be done at this stage. Other residents should be on their guard, however, and if approached in a similar fashion, please try to get the name of individual and company, and a return telephone number.
Please pass this warning to vulnerable neighbours.
Please note that there have been a number of burglaries in the area around Cutnall Green near Droitwich - I am sending this message area-wide as this may be related to a series of burglaries that have been taking place recently across the whole of the West Mercia area (as well as in Warwickshire and Gloucestershire), targetting unoccupied houses in residential areas, often in the daytime, and generally targetting jewellery - please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The recent incidents in the Droitwich area are as follows:
1) Between 1200-1300hrs 18th Oct there was a burglary at an address in Cutnall Green - nothing was stolen (Incident ref 343-S-191011.)
2) Between 1400-1630hrs 15th Oct there was a burglary at an address in Newland near Droitwich - jewellery was stolen. (Incident ref 538-S-151011.)
3) Between midnight and 1900hrs on 13th Oct there was a burglary at an address on Addiss Lane Cutnall Green - jewellery, cash and perfume was stolen. (Incident ref 627-S-131011.)
A report has been received from a member of another Neighbourhood Watch regarding a scam falsely claiming to be someone from BT contacting people about an imaginary unpaid bill. This scam has been going on for well over a year now. There is a message regarding this on the BT website, the content of the warning from BT is as follows:
Someone claiming to be from BT called saying I'd be cut off unless I paid them.
Please be very careful as criminals have been phoning some of our customers and trying to trick them into giving out their bank details. During the calls they'll claim you owe money on your bill and threaten to disconnect your phone line immediately if you don't pay them over the phone.
Unfortunately some customers have given out bank account details because they've been worried about having their phone line cut off. A number of phone companies have been targeted and the police are investigating. BT Security is also looking into the incidents.
BT may have to call you about a debt, but we'll never disconnect a phone line during the call.
Don't give out any banking details over the phone unless you're absolutely certain who you're talking to.
A Clarke Pressure Washer was stolen from a house in Field Barn Lane sometime last weekend. It is an older industrial type machine on two wheels with a red motor, very heavy. If anyone saw anything, or is offered such a machine, please make contact with us through the contact us page on the web site.
Beware! This machine has an earth fault and could electrocute the user!
A resident of Fladbury has reported:
In the bus shelter there's a notice offering £50,000 reward to anyone assisting in uncovering deceit, corruption etc in West Mercia police. Roger Hemming has told the police about this. There is also an email address on the notice corruptioninwestmerciapolice@gmail.com
I am rather suspicious of this, as it does not appear to be the usual, official, West Mercia email address.
Can you throw any light on this, please ?
Response from West Mercia Police:
Good Afternoon,
These posters have turned up in various places over several months. They have no official standing and appear to be from an unhappy former customer of West Mercia.
Regards Rod Gurney
Worcestershire Regulatory Services' Trading Standards team is warning local residents to be on their guard following a number of complaints relating to unsolicited telephone callers. Calls from individuals who are believed to be based overseas have been flooding the county in recent weeks. The callers falsely claim to be associated with a number of different organisations, including Microsoft, Telephone Preference Service, a number of different banks and government and local authority departments. It appears that the callers are making attempts to gain personal and banking information from residents with a view to accessing their bank accounts.
Steve Jorden, Head of Worcestershire Regulatory Services, said: "Residents should not under any circumstances provide any personal or bank information to unsolicited callers. Genuine organisations do not operate in this manner and would never call and request bank details. If you are unsure about a caller or think they may be legitimate then always check for a genuine number in a telephone directory and call back on that number".
For further advice or to report a call please contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06
Worcestershire Regulatory Services (trading Standards team) has received information that Rooftop Housing tenants in Evesham have been targeted by a telephone scam. Unsolicited callers have contacted residents and claimed that they were representing Rooftop Housing Group and asked if they would like to buy any TV aerials. One of the tenants questioned the caller for more details because he already had an aerial and the caller hung up, the number was withheld. Rooftop Housing Group has investigated this matter and advised that this call was not made by any of Rooftop Housing staff or representatives.
This service has also received reports that a male has been calling on residents in the Bromsgrove and Redditch area of the county claiming to be working for Redditch Borough Council. The caller was making enquiries in relation to gas and electricity contracts and requested bank details for "refunds". Redditch borough Council and local authorities do not operate in this manner.
County residents are advised that under no circumstances should they provide bank details to unknown callers.
Regards
Rod Gurney
Community Support Officer 6029
Evesham Rural West Local Policing Team
Phone: 0300 333 3000 Ext 3408/3499
Voice mail: 01905 725766 / 725770
E mail: rodney.gurney@westmercia.pnn.police.uk
Superintendent Steve Cullen, police commander for South Worcestershire policing unit, has praised his officers, staff and the communities they serve following a small amount of disorder in the area.
Two men are in custody on suspicion of arson following an incident where a police car in a Warndon garage was set on fire.
Other suspects are in custody on suspicion of incitement to cause disorder after police monitored social media sites.
Supt Cullen added: "I want to reassure the residents of Worcester and surrounding areas that we have extra officers on the streets again tonight in case of any trouble. We do not expect any disorder in South Worcestershire or any other parts of West Mercia tonight but we are ready should any occur.
"I would like to thank the public for all the information they have supplied to us which helps us tackle any emerging problems.
"I am proud of my dedicated officers and staff, including Community Support Officers. I would especially like to highlight the excellent work by members of the Special Constabulary who have given their own time and volunteered to be out on the streets to reassure the public."
Twelve arrests were made overnight across West Mercia but no major disorder was reported. Police responded quickly to reports of groups of youths gathering.
Supt Cullen added: "For up to date police information please visit the West Mercia Police Facebook page or follow us on Twitter - @wmerciapolice"
Brian Carter,
Co-ordinator
Fladbury Neighbourhood Watch
'Tuscans'
Fladbury
Pershore
WR10 2QW
Tel: 01386 860247
Mobile: 07802 640227
A significant increase in theft of lead has swept across our Force Area over the last few weeks.
Lead products including strips of lead 'flashing', no matter how small, are being stolen from buildings throughout our area. In some cases the thieves are returning a few weeks later to steal the replacement lead.
Some thefts are going un-noticed for several days as the lead has been taken from a detached garage or out-building . Please check all roof and porch areas regularly.
Can we ask that residents remain alert to any suspicious activity, particularly at night?
Also, if anyone has rolls of new lead, for a building project, that is lying on the ground or being stored in the open we suggest they removed it from sight. Or better, store it in a secure locked garage, storage unit or container.
Any suspicious activity should be reported to Worcester Police on 0300 333 3000.