attempted burglary at a property in Horsham

Dear NHW Co-ordinator

Please circulate the message below to your scheme members:

Serial 1601 of 23/12/14 refers to an attempted burglary at a property in Horsham.

At approximately 11:30pm on Tuesday 23^rd December an attempt was made to gain entry to a bungalow in Hawksbourne Road. Three males were seen outside the property by the elderly occupant and it is believed that two of the males were trying to force open the front door lock. The offenders were disturbed by the occupant and left the scene. Police searched the area but were unable to locate the males.

Sussex Police are appealing to anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1601 of 23/12/14.

Kind Regards

Louisa HULL

Public Engagement Officer
Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham.

suspicious male entering a property in Horsham

Dear NHW Co-ordinator

Please circulate the message below to your scheme members:

Serial 0317 of 23/12/14 refers to a suspicious male entering a property in Horsham.

At approximately 9:15am on Tuesday 23^rd December a male unknown to the occupants of a house in Shepherds Way entered the premises via an unlocked back door whilst the occupants were at home. The male had also tried opening the front door first.

On seeing the occupants were at home the male then ran out of the property in the direction of Lambs Farm Road. He is described as a white male with dark hair, of medium height and was wearing a black raincoat.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial number 0317 23/12/14.

Kind Regards

Louisa HULL

Public Engagement Officer
Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham.

Tel: 101 (Sussex) 530215 Twitter: @sussex_police

Burglars now linked to more than 200 burglaries across the south east

16 December 2014

A group of burglars are now believed to be responsible for more than 200 break-ins across the south east.

It is thought that one group of up to a dozen burglars are involved in 59 offences in Sussex, 24 in Surrey, 113 in Kent and nine in London since September. The make-up of the group may change depending on who is available.

Last week - between Monday 8 December and Sunday 14 December - there were 18 burglaries committed in Sussex that are being linked to the group along with four in Surrey and 22 in Kent.

On each occasion the offenders have driven to their victims' homes in a silver or dark car, usually an Audi or BMW, before breaking in at the back of the properties and stealing cash, jewellery and electrical items.

A reward worth up to £10,500 has been put up for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of any of those involved in the burglaries.

Sussex Police launched Operation Magpie to tackle burglary across the county.

The thieves are believed to be using cars fitted with number plates that have been cloned from another unrelated car of the same type and colour. Officers would like to speak to anyone who sees people changing number plates or who finds any abandoned plates.

Detectives are also urging residents to help them catch those involved by dialling 999 immediately if they see people acting suspiciously near their homes - in particular if they notice potential offenders with silver Audis or BMWs.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Clay of Surrey Police, who is leading the investigation, said: "There are detectives from across the south east working to catch those involved but we need the public's help.

"The key to identifying the people responsible may come from residents living near one of the victims. They may have seen the thieves escaping in their silver car or could have seen people acting suspiciously over the weekend.

"I would also urge people to continue to be vigilant in their areas and to tell us if they see anyone who is acting unusually near their homes. If something sticks out as suspicious to you, please tell us so we can investigate - it could be the break that we need to catch those involved."

Sussex Police, Kent Police and Surrey Police have each contributed £2,500 to a reward to help catch the offenders - a total of £7,500 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those involved.

Independent from the police, the charity Crimestoppers is offering its own reward of up to £3,000 for information that is passed anonymously through the organisation's 0800 555111 number that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for these crimes.

If information passed to the charity should lead to an arrest and conviction, both rewards will be considered.

Anyone with information should contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting Operation Smart, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101.

If you have any information about burglaries or shops selling stolen goods, call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. For crime prevention advice visit www.sussex.police.uk.

If you see or hear a burglary taking place call 999 immediately.

Residents are also being encouraged to register their items on the world's largest property database so that if they are stolen, they can be reunited with the owners - and so the offenders can be prosecuted.

You can register your property in just a few minutes by visiting www.immobilise.com. To watch a video about Immobilise and how it works, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XZ66WEER_c.

In Sussex the burglaries have been in:

17/9 - Calluna Drive, Copthorne
18/9 - Church Lane, Copthorne
3/10 - Maple Dell, East Grinstead
3/10 - West Beeches Rd, Crowborough
3/10 - Woodview, Crowborough
3/10 - Langridge Close, Crowborough
6/10 - Meadow Close, Copthorne
9/10 - Millbrook Road, Crowborough
9/10 - Warren Ridge, Crowborough
9/10 - Eridge Gardens, Crowborough
9/10 - Swift Close, Crowborough
10/10 - Jordans Crescent, Crawley
10/10 - Jordans Crescent, Crawley
10/10 - Baker Close, Crawley
11/10 - Tushmore Lane, Crawley
11/10 - Netherwood, Crawley
11/10 - Buckswood Drive, Crawley
12/10 - Newlands Park, Copthorne
12/10 - Newlands Park, Copthorne
14/10 - Park Shaw, Battle
14/10 - Weald View, Robertsbridge
16/10 - Sheringham Close, Robertsbridge
28/10 - London Road, Burgess Hill
28/10 - Munnion Road, Ardingly
28/10 - Munnion Road, Ardingly
28/10 - Munnion Road, Ardingly
28/10 - Hophurst Drive, Crawley Down
28/10 - Hill House Close, Turners Hill
28/10 - Dunstall Avenue, Burgess Hill
28/10 - Gander Hill, Haywards Heath
28/10 - Gander Hill, Haywards Heath
4/11 - Mowbray Drive, Crawley
4/11 - Tallis Close, Crawley
6/11 - The Glebe, Copthorne
12/11 - Cross Lane, Findon
12/11 - School Hill, Findon
12/11 - Avon Close, Sompting
12/11 - The Grove, Newhaven
12/11 - Rectory Road, Newhaven
5/12 - Blakes Farm Road, Southwater
5/12 - Blakes Farm Road, Southwater
9/12 - Roffeys Close, Copthorne
9/12 - Park Road, Burgess Hill
9/12 - Gander Close, Burgess Hill
9/12 - Manor Drive, Cuckfield
13/12 - Midfields Drive, Burgess Hill
13/12 - Hurstwood Lane, Haywards Heath
13/12 - Beale Street, Burgess Hill
13/12 - Silverdale, Hassocks
13/12 - Whitegates Close, South Chailey
13/12 - Whitegates Close, South Chailey
13/12 - Chantonbury Road, Burgess Hill
13/12 - Whitegates Close, South Chailey
13/12 - Kymer Gardens, Hassocks
14/12 - Shepherds Way, Hassocks
14/12 - Chandlers Mead, Cooksbridge
14/12 - Nightingale Lane, Burgess Hill
14/12 - Kymer Gardens, Hassocks
14/12 - Park Road, Burgess Hill

In Surrey the burglaries were in:

17/9 - Brighton Road, Horley
11/10 - Fairfield Avenue, Horley
11/10 - Field Bank, Horley
14/10 - Lagham Park, South Godstone
28/10 - Weatherhill Road, Smallfield
4/11 - Dovers Green Road, Reigate
4/11 - Yew Tree Close, Horley
4/11 - St Monicas Road, Tadworth
4/11 - Bakers Close, Lingfield
6/11 - Pinewood Avenue, Addlestone
6/11 - Redehall Road, Smallfield
6/11 - Redlands Garden, West Molesey
6/11 - Burden Way, Guildford
6/11 - Kings Chase, East Molesey
6/11 - Nortons Way, Five Oak Green
7/11 - Park Avenue, Redhill
7/11 - Bayfield Road, Horley
7/11 - Grovehill Road, Redhill
7/11 - Bakehouse Road, Horley
7/11 - The Drive, Horley
5/12 - Chessington Road, Epsom
9/12 - Tudor Close, Smallfield
9/12 - Tudor Close, Smallfield
9/12 - Park Road, Smallfield
9/12 - Park Road, Smallfield

In Kent the burglaries were in:

16/09 - Highfield Road, Sevenoaks
16/09 - The Crescent Sevenoaks
16/09 - Crowhurst Lane, Sevenoaks
16/09 - Zambra Way, Sevenoaks
16/09 - Tudor Drive, Sevenoaks
16/09 - Ascot Close, Sevenoaks
24/09 - Tattlebury Lane, Cranbrook
26/09 - Stream Pit Lane, Cranbrook
29/09 - Fen Pond Road, Sevenoaks
29/09 - Fen Pond Road, Sevenoaks
01/10 - Wallace Close, Tunbridge Wells
03/10 - Eastlands Road, Tunbridge Wells
03/10 - Furnace Lane, Tunbridge Wells
09/10 - Rodmell Lane, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - St James Rd, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - Leighton Close, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - Gipps Cross Lane, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - Widbury, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - Manor Road, Tunbridge Wells
11/10 - Dornden Drive, Tunbridge Wells
15/10 - Bessel Way, Sevenoaks
16/10 - Elphicks Place, Tunbridge Wells
16/10 - Elphicks Place, Tunbridge Wells
16/10 - Boundary Road, Tunbridge Wells
16/10 - Forest Road, Tunbridge Wells
18/10 - Copseside, Longfield
18/10 - Copseside, Longfield
19/10 - Pelham Road
20/10 - Lyndhurst Drive, Sevenoaks
20/10 - Stafford Way, Sevenoaks
20/10 - Weald Close, Sevenoaks
20/10 - Bessel Way, Sevenoaks
23/10 - High Street, Sevenoaks
23/10 - Pilgrim Way, Sevenoaks
23/10 - Kemsing Road, Sevenoaks
23/10 - Shoreham Road, Sevenoaks
23/10 - Conifer Drive Meopham
23/10 - Warham Road, Sevenoaks
24/10 - Coach Road, Sevenoaks
27/10 - Greenhill Road, Otford
27/10 - Kingsfield Road, West Kingsdown
27/10 - Ash Road, Longfield
27/10 - London Road, Sevenoaks
27/10 - The Old Yews, Longfield
27/10 - Cricketers Drive, Meopham
29/10 - Hartley Bottom, Longfield
31/10 - Hartley Bottom, Longfield
1/11 - Snoll Hatch Road, Tonbridge
1/11 - The Freehold, Tonbridge
1/11 - Smithers Lane, Tonbridge
1/11 - Church Meadows, Tonbridge
1/11 - The Manwarings, Tonbridge
3/11 - Old Road, Wateringbury
3/11 - Freelands Road, Snodland
3/11 - Meteor Road, Kings Hill
3/11 - Tonbridge Road, Maidstone
3/11 - Terminus Road, Maidstone
3/11 - Courtlands Close, Maidstone
3/11 - Bridgewater Place, Leybourne
3/11 - Tonbridge Road, Maidstone
4/11 - Red Hill, Wateringbury
5/11 - Town Hill Close, West Malling
5/11 - Drage Road, East Peckham
5/11 - Laxton Gardens, Tonbridge
5/11 - North Street, Maidstone
5/11 - North Street, Maidstone
5/11 - Oast Court, Yalding
5/11 - Barnfield Road, Sevenoaks
6/11 - Courtyard Gardens, Wrotham
6/11 - Nortons Way, Five Oak Green
26/11 - School Close, Meopham
26/11 - Knockhall Road, Greenhithe
26/11 - Lyndhurst Way, Istead Rise
29/11 - Allington Road, Paddock Wood
29/11 - Green Lane, Paddock Wood
29/11 - Buttercup Close, Paddock Wood
29/11 - Tonbridge Road, Maidstone
29/11 - North Street, Maidstone
29/11 - Angley Court, Horsmonden
30/11 - Forge Lane East, Maidstone
30/11 - Hazlitt Drive, Maidstone
2/12 - Hever Road, Edenbridge
2/12 - Ridge Way, Edenbridge
5/12 - Whitchurch Close, Maidstone
5/12 - Hale Street, East Peckham
5/12 - Hale Street, East Peckham
5/12 - Dean Street, East Farleigh
5/12 - Postmill Drive, Maidstone
5/12 - College Avenue, Tonbridge
5/12 - Old Road, East Peckham
6/12 - College Avenue, Tonbridge
8/12 - Winchs Garth, Tonbridge
8/12 - Manor House Gardens, Edenbridge
8/12 - Maltings Close, Tonbridge
8/12 - Warrington Road, Paddock Wood
8/12 - Crown Acres, Tonbridge
8/12 - Beverley Road, Maidstone
8/12 - Allington Road, Paddock Wood
8/12 - Shaftesbury Drive, Maidstone
8/12 - Maypole Lane, Cranbrook
9/12 - Shaftesbury Drive, Maidstone
11/12 - Goldsmid Road, Tonbridge
11/12 - Marle Place Road, Tonbridge
11/12 - Minters Orchard, Pett  Platt
11/12 - Church Lane, East Peckham
11/12 - Pine View, Platt
11/12 - Penn Way, Tonbridge
11/12 - Framley Road, Tonbridge
11/12 - Bessels Way, Sevenoaks
11/12 - Paiges Farm Close, Sevenoaks
12/12 - The Hurst, Borough Green
12/12 - Bow Hill Oast, Maidstone
12/12 - Framley Road, Tonbridge

In London the burglaries were in:

15/10 - Grangewood, Bexley
15/10 - The Oval, Sidcup
4/11 - Foxbury Close, Orpington
4/11 - Waring Drive, Orpington
4/11 - Arundel Drive, Orpington
4/11 - Arundel Drive, Orpington
4/11 - Grasmere Road, Croydon
10/11 - Glentramon Road, Chelsfield
10/11 - Glentramon Road, Chelsfield

 

Best Regards   John   John Wright MBE Chair. Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Federation. Mobile:   07917385213 Business:01444 247368 Email:enquiries@sussexnwfed.org.uk Web:  www.sussexnwfed.org.uk

 

“Together we build stronger and safer communities”

burglary in Horsham

Dear NHW Co-ordinators

 

Please circulate the message below to your scheme members:

 

Serial 0778 of 11^th December relates to a burglary in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 10am and 2:15pm on Wednesday 10^th December a property in Bunting Close was broken into.

 

It would appear that the offender/s were able to gain entry via a rear window.

 

Items taken include a silver 2004 registered Vauxhall Astra and keys, jewellery, electrical items and a laptop.

 

After good work by officers, Sussex Police have made 3 arrests in connection with this incident but are appealing for anyone with further information to call 101 quoting serial 0778 11/12/14.

 

Kind Regards

Louisa HULL

Temporary Public Engagement Officer
Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham.

Tel: 101 (Sussex) 530215 Twitter: @sussex_police

To report an incident please contact us via telephone on 101, via e-mail to 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or online at www.sussex.police.uk, when it’s less urgent than 999.

Burglaries

Serial 1327 of 04/11/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Southwater.

 

Sometime between 18:15 pm hours and 19:15 hours on 04/11/2014 a property in The Fieldings, Southwater was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by smashing a rear door.

 

Nothing appears to have been stolen.    

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1327 04/11/2014.

 

 

 

 

Serial 1431 of 04/11/2014 relates to a burglary in Rudgwick.

 

At 19:30 hours on 04/11/2014 a property in Guildford Road, Rudgwick was broken in to.

 

It would appear that offenders were able to gain entry by a rear door.

 

Nothing appears to have been stolen.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1431 04/11/2014.

 

 

Horsham Neighbourhood Policing team (HorshamNPT@sussex.pnn.police.uk)

 

If you report an incident to the police via 101, online at http://www.sussex.police.uk/help-centre/report-something-online or e-mail on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk, please remember to say if you are from NHW, so that Police can see how effective NHW is.

Burglary Investigation County wide

Police are appealing for help to catch a group of criminals they believe are responsible for 40 burglaries across East and West Sussex.

Officers are also speaking to detectives in Kent, Surrey, Thames Valley and the Metropolitan Police to see if the same people could be responsible for similar break-ins across the south east.

Over the weekend and on Monday there were three burglaries in Copthorne, three in East Grinstead and five in Crawley that officers believe were committed by the same people as well as an attempted burglary in Copthorne.

They are also thought to be responsible for a further five burglaries in Copthorne, another three in East Grinstead and another six in Crawley as well as seven in Crowborough, two in Robertsbridge, two in Burgess Hill, two in Ardingly and one each in Crawley Down and Battle - all between 17 September and 28 October.

Detective Inspector Dave Wardley-Wilkins said: "A common theme through the burglaries has been the fact that they have used a silver Audi on false numberplates as a getaway car.

"We believe one group of burglars are involved but at this stage we do not know if it is exactly the same group of people each time. A number of people are involved but the make-up of the group may change depending on who is available.

"The burglars are targeting homes in some of the more expensive areas of Sussex, smashing doors or windows to get in and stealing gold jewellery in particular, after a quick search of the properties.

"We urgently need the public's help to identify these people so we can trace and arrest them."

Sussex Police launched Operation Magpie to tackle burglary across the county.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area of the burglaries on the days they were committed or the days before and who may have seen people acting suspiciously.

Of particular interest is anyone seen with a silver Audi that is fitted with numberplates that have been cloned from another, unrelated car of the same type and colour.

The numberplates could be switched after the burglaries so police would also like information from anyone who may have seen cars having their numberplates changed or who has found abandoned numberplates.

Between 9.30am and 10pm on Saturday (1 November) thieves broke into three homes in Buckhurst Way, East Grinstead, and stole jewellery, money and laptops.

A home in Fowler Close, Crawley, was burgled between 9am and 7.40pm on Saturday.

Jewellery was also stolen in three burglaries in Meadow Way, Copthorne, on Saturday and there was also an unsuccessful attempt to break into a home in the road.

On Monday (3 November) between 1pm and 6pm there were a further four burglaries in Crawley - two in Thorndyke Close and one in each of Redgrave Drive and Kelso Close - and jewellery was stolen.

Currently officers are linking the following list of burglaries to the group:

3/10/2014 Maple Dell, East Grinstead
3/10/2014 West Beeches Rd, Crowborough
3/10/2014 Woodview, Crowborough
3/10/2014 Langridge Close, Crowborough
6/10/2014 Meadow Close, Copthorne
9/10/2014 Millbrook Road, Crowborough
9/10/2014 Warren Ridge, Crowborough
9/10/2014 Eridge Gardens, Crowborough
9/10/2014 Swift Close, Crowborough
10/10/2014 Jordans Crescent, Crawley
10/10/2014 Jordans Crescent, Crawley
10/10/2014 Baker Close, Crawley
11/10/2014 Tushmore Lane, Crawley
11/10/2014 Netherwood, Crawley
11/10/2014 Buckswood Drive, Crawley
12/10/2014 Newlands Park, Copthorne
12/10/2014 Newlands Park, Copthorne
14/10/2014 Park Shaw, Battle
14/10/2014 Weald View, Robertsbridge
16/10/2014 Sheringham Close, Robertsbridge
16/10/2014 Pegasus Way, East Grinstead
16/10/2014 Court Crescent, East Grinstead
17/09/2014 Calluna Drive, Copthorne
18/09/2014 Church Lane, Copthorne
28/10/2014 London Road, Burgess Hill
28/10/2014 Folders Lane, Burgess Hill
28/10/2014 Munnion Road, Ardingly
28/10/2014 Munnion Road, Ardingly
28/10/2014 Hophurst Drive, Crawley Down
1/11/2014 Buckhurst Way, East Grinstead
1/11/2014 Buckhurst Way, East Grinstead
1/11/2014 Buckhurst Way, East Grinstead
1/11/2014 Fowler Close, Crawley
2/11/2014 The Meadow, Copthorne
2/11/2014 The Meadow, Copthorne
2/11/2014 The Meadow, Copthorne
3/11/2014 Kelso Close, Crawley
3/11/2014 Thorndyke Close, Crawley
3/11/2014 Thorndyke Close, Crawley
3/11/2014 Redgrave Drive, Crawley

Anyone with information should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting Operation Smart, call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

If you have any information about burglaries or shops selling stolen goods, call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. For crime prevention advice visit www.sussex.police.uk.

If you see or hear a burglary taking place call 999 immediately.

Residents can also being encouraged to register their items on the world's largest property database so that if they are stolen, they can be reunited with the owners - and so the offenders can be prosecuted.

You can register your property in just a few minutes by visiting www.immobilise.com. To watch a video about Immobilise and how it works, visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XZ66WEER_c.

Follow the joint burglary campaign being run across Sussex, Surrey, Kent and Thames Valley using the hashtag #L

 

Best Regards   John   John Wright MBE Chair. Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Federation. Mobile:   07917385213 Business:01444 247368 Email:enquiries@sussexnwfed.org.uk Web:  www.sussexnwfed.org.uk

Burglaries

Serial 0486 of 02/11/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 30/10/2014 and 22:00 pm hours on 01/11/2014 a property in Farhalls Crescent, Horsham was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by smashing a rear conservatory window.

 

Items taken include several watches.    

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0486 02/11/2014.

 

 

 

Serial 0435 of 02/11/2014 relates to a burglary in Storrington.

 

Sometime between 12:15 25/10/2014 and 09:30 on 02/11/2014 a property in Hormare Crescent, Storrington was broken in to.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by removing a pne of glass from a downstairs window.

 

It is not yet known what items are missing.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0435 02/11/2014.

 

 

Horsham Neighbourhood Policing team (HorshamNPT@sussex.pnn.police.uk)

No Cold Calling notices

You might be interested in the following notice which you can display in your window or front door to deter unwanted cold callers. Available from West Sussex County Council Trading Standards trading.standards@westsussex.gov.uk  Email them and they'll send one in the post.

Crime Prevention Advice

To Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinators and Members

 

 

Keep your home secure

 

With the autumn evenings approaching, it is time to focus on keeping your home secure.   Leaving your home during hours of darkness, without putting on lights or drawing the curtains, indicates to the opportunist criminal that there is no-one at home. Unfortunately, every year sees a spate of early evening burglaries associated with the clocks going back. Please help us to help you by taking the steps outlined below:- 

 

• Use an automatic time switch on an indoor light, either in a room that cannot be peered into from the road, or upstairs.   Regularly change the timing on the switch.

 

• Put a time switch on a radio that has been tuned to a chat station, this will give the impression that the house is occupied. Again, regularly change the timing on the switch.

 

• Fit security lighting, either dusk to dawn energy efficient lighting that will come on automatically as dusk sets in, or brighter passive infrared activated lighting drawing attention to movement.

 

• Ensure that gates or access to the rear of the house are locked and secure. Don’t forget to lock your shed, the tools can be used to break in. Trim overgrown plants – don’t give burglaries a hiding place.

 

• Secure windows, paying particular attention to those on the ground floor and above flat roof areas. Use locks and bolts and keep all your keys, including car keys, out of sight and out of reach.

 

• Property mark your valuables by using your postcode and your house number or name.    Some articles are unsuitable for marking so photograph them – with a ruler in view to show scale.

 

• Intruder alarms are an effective deterrent against burglars.    Before choosing a system ensure it is the one most suitable for your needs.

 

• Trust your instincts. If you see anything suspicious let us know. If you think a crime is about to happen or is in progress dial 999.  

 

• Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.    For details of a local scheme or to start a scheme phone us on 0845 070 999 and ask for the Crime Prevention Co-ordination in your area.  

Theft from vehicle and burglary in Horsham

Serial 0453 of 21/09/2014 relates to a theft from an unattended vehicle in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 17:00 hours on 20/09/2014 and 09:00 hours on 21/09/2014 a vehicle in St Leonards Road, Horsham was broken in to.

 

It was not clear how the offenders managed to gain access to the vehicle. Several items were stolen including a sat nav.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0453 21/09/2014.

Serial 0411 of 21/09/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 21:30 hours on 20/09/2014 and 08:30 hours on 21/09/2014 a property in Livingstone Road, Horsham was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by forcing the front door of the property.

 

Items taken include car keys.    

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0411 21/09/2014.

Door to Door Bogus Traders

To Neighbourhood Watch Coordinators, we have been asked to send out the below alert on behalf of Horsham District Council;

 

We had a report earlier today of traders calling door to door in Shermanbury (Brighton Road area) offering driveway repairs and claiming to have left over bitumen from top dressing local roads.

 

We would like to issue a warning to residents in that vicinity regarding the potential perils of employing doorstep callers to undertake home improvement works such as driveway repairs, roofing etc. and to report all such incidents to Trading Standards via www.westsussex.gov.uk/tsreport or to Citizens advice on 03454 04 05 06.  

Burglaries

Serial 0725 of 16/09 relates to a burglary at a property in Dutchells Copse, Horsham.   

 

Sometime between 1130 and 1255 hours a property was broken into and a quantity of jewellery was stolen.   

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0725.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Serial 0760 of 17/09 relates to a burglary at a property in College Road, Southwater.

 

Sometime between 0945 hrs and 1320 hrs a property was broken into and a large quantity of jewellery was stolen. 

 

It would appear that the offender/s were able to gain entry by forcing the front door.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0760

 

 

 

 

Serial 1204 of 17/09 relates to a burglary that took place at a property in Bonfire Hill, Southwater.  

 

Sometime between 1625-1655 a property was broken into and gold jewellery and a watch was stolen.

 

It would appear that the offender/s were able to gain entry by smashing the rear patio door with a paving slab.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1204

council tax scam in Mid Sussex

Be aware of council tax scam in Mid Sussex

10 September 2014

Residents are being urged to be aware of a scam involving offenders claiming to be offering council tax refunds.

A number of people in Mid Sussex have been phoned and told that they had been placed in the wrong council tax band and that they should get a sum of money back.

The offender then told the victims that they would need to pay a fee via their debit or credit card to get their full refund and asked for their card details.

A number of elderly and vulnerable people across the district have been contacted and have given their card details out.

It is not yet known whether any of the victims have lost money in the scam or if there are more people who have been targeted but who have not contacted either Sussex Police or Mid Sussex District Council.

There could also be victims in other parts of Sussex.

Sergeant Graeme Prentice said: "We need to speak to anyone who has been contacted by those involved in the scam so that we can track down and arrest those responsible.

"They appear to be deliberately targeting the vulnerable and the elderly and we want to stop them before they steal anyone else's money.

"If you have elderly or vulnerable residents or neighbours please make them aware of this scam so they do not become a victim."

Councillor Christopher Snowling, Mid Sussex District Council's cabinet member for health and community, said: "The council will never contact you out of the blue to ask for personal information like your bank details.

"I would like to urge our residents to be vigilant and not give out their personal details unless they are absolutely sure of the caller's identity.

"If you're in any doubt, please call our switchboard on 01444 458166 to check a council number is genuine."

The process of claiming a council tax refund does not involve telephoning the person eligible for a refund. Councils will write to the person eligible for a refund and then send a cheque or make a direct payment into their bank once they confirm that person still resides at the relevant address. No fee will ever be requested to process a refund.

If you have been contacted as part of the scam or you know someone who has but has not reported it, please email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101.

 

Best Regards   John   John Wright MBE Chair. Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Federation. Mobile:   07917385213 Business:01444 247368 Email: enquiries@sussexnwfed.org.uk Web:  www.sussexnwfed.org.uk

Attempted Burglary - Southwater

Serial 1416 of 08/09/2014 relates to an attempt burglary at a property in Southwater.

 

Sometime between 17:45 and 18:15 hours on 08/09/2014 a property in Kings Lane, Southwater was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were trying to gain entry by forcing a rear window.       

 

Entry was not gained by offenders.     

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1416 of 08/09/2014.

 

Burglary - Colgate

Serial 1352 of 08/09/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Colgate.

 

Sometime between 14:30 and 17:30 hours on 08/09/2014 a property in Forest Road, Colgate was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by forcing a rear window.       .

 

Items taken include laptops.     

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1352 of 08/09/2014.

Burglary - Horsham

Serial 1015 of 04/09/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 12:10 and 16:20 hours on 04/09/2014 a property in Campions Road, Horsham was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by forcing open the front door to the property.      .

 

No items believed stolen.    

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 1015 04/09/2014.     .

Burglary

Serial 0029 of 20/08/2014 relates to a burglary at a property in Horsham.

 

Sometime between 00:20 and 00:40 hours on 20/08/2014 a property in Giblets Lane, Horsham was broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by attempting to climb in to an open window in the downstairs of the property.      .

 

Items taken include a set of keys.    

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0029 20/08/2014.

 

Burglaries in Horsham

Serial 0807 of 13/08/2014 relates to a Garage break in Beech Road, Horsham.

 

During day time hours on 13/08/2014 a number of garages were broken in to in several roads including Sycamore Avenue, The Pines and Beech Road in Horsham.

 

A property In Church Road, Horsham was also subject to an attempt burglary.

 

Three males in their late teens have been arrested in connection with all the above burglaries.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting serial 0807 of 13/08/2014.

 

Horsham Neighbourhood Policing team (HorshamNPT@sussex.pnn.police.uk)

 

If you report an incident to the police via 101, online at http://www.sussex.police.uk/help-centre/report-something-online or e-mail on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk, please remember to say if you are from NHW, so that Police can see how effective NHW is.

Scam

Council Tax Scam

 

An elderly man in Shoreham was contacted over the phone by someone claiming to be from the Council and that he was entitled to a council tax refund. He was given the contact number for the council as 0844 800 9426, however when it was dialled, it does not appear to be a valid number.

 

The suspect then said that they would need to take a fee of £55 via debit or credit card to process the refund. The victim realised this was a scam and did not pay any money. A friend of the victim subsequently called Adur Council to confirm whether this was a legitimate call – it was not and there are other people who have experienced calls of this nature.

 

The process of claiming a Council Tax refund does not involve telephoning the person eligible for a refund. For example Adur and Worthing Council will write to the person eligible for a refund and then send a cheque or make a direct payment into their bank once they confirm that person still resides at the relevant address, and no fee would ever be requested to process a refund.

 

Please make sure that you circulate this to all your family and friends and especially those vulnerable or older members of the community who may not have access to this information electronically.

 

Councillor Angus Dunn, Cabinet Member for Resources at Adur District Council, said:

“It is distressing to hear that some of our residents have been targeted with this scam.

“When any refunds are due, we always contact the individual concerned in writing, never by telephone in the first instance.

“If anyone receives a call of this nature asking for money, then I urge them to report it to Sussex Police using the 101 hotline number.”

 

Horsham Neighbourhood Policing team (HorshamNPT@sussex.pnn.police.uk)

 

If you report an incident to the police via 101, online at http://www.sussex.police.uk/help-centre/report-something-online or e-mail on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk, please remember to say if you are from NHW, so that Police can see how effective NHW is.

thefts of purses

There has  recently been a number of thefts of purses in the Horsham town centre area. Ladies are reminded to keep their handbags closed and close to them at all times. Never leave their bags unattended even when in changing rooms or paying for goods at the counter.

If anyone has any information as to who may be responsible then please contact Sussex Police on 101 quoting CAD's 0608,0659 or 0983 all of the 23/07/14

Suspicious Vehicle

The following vehicle EG03 NLJ a Red Vauxhall Combo van is believed to be involved in break ins to properties in the Horsham area. Any sightings please contact Sussex police on 101 with any information,

Burglaries

We have recently suffered a number of burglaries in the Horsham area. If anyone Has any knowledge as to who may be responsible for any of these then please ring Sussex police on 101 quoting the relevant CAD number 

Date: 15/07 CAD: 0563 Time: Between 4/07 and 5/07	Offence:   Burglary Dwelling Location: 9 Undermill Road, Upper Beeding, Steyning Informant reporting that there has been a burglary at home address between 2200 hrs 4/07 and 1000 hrs 5/07.   2 Gold and diamond rings (total value £2,000).   Believed this happened while husband was out walking the dog as informant saw a young IC1 male, 10-12 years with light gingery hair and wearing a red T shirt, sitting on a bike in the road outside the address after the husband left.
Date: 15/07 CAD: 0817 Time: From 1200 hrs	Offence: Burglary Dwelling Location: Amberfield, Spring Lane, Slinfold Informant has returned from holiday and has found that property has been broken into and his daughter’s car has been stolen. Mother in law has been staying at property whilst away when left at mid-day today the property was secure.    Vehicle stolen: EK58 BYB (Black Yaris) Also smashed through a locked door upstairs and have made a search of the room upstairs.
Date:  15/07 CAD: 1131	Offence: Burglary Dwelling Location: 104 Bennetts Road, Horsham Informant has reported that over two months money has been slowly taken from his house.   £120 taken from wife’s wardrobe and then £50 from her box on the dresser.  Last week main door handle was broken and noticed that last night shed had been tried and broken into. Lock and wall was damaged.   .

Bogus workmen

Dear Colleagues

The following message is being sent to all NHW Coordinators on behalf of the Sussex NHW Federation.

Dear Friends,

Whilst I appreciate this issue is connected to West Sussex at present, I am sending this across Sussex to make you aware in case they decide to enter your area! Forewarned is Forearmed.

Bogus workmen target West Sussex residents in driveway con

Date: 9 July 2014
Press release number: PR6679

West Sussex County Council is urging residents to be cautious of conmen posing as highway contractors and offering to resurface their driveways on the cheap.

The call comes after a number of recent attempts by several men, presenting themselves as West Sussex Highways workers, were reported to the County Council approaching residents offering to carry out ‘cut price’ work.

The bogus workmen have been posing as the County Council’s contractors, who are currently working on West Sussex roads repairing potholes and carrying out resurfacing.

Eileen and Michael Hallam from Rusper, near Horsham, rang the County Council after a group of men, posing as Council contractors, knocked on their front door and asked if they needed their driveway resurfaced.

Eileen said: “They told us that they had been undertaking road works nearby and had some leftover tarmac which they could use to resurface our driveway quite cheaply.

“We’ve had a number of workmen carrying out pothole repairs in the area over the last few days and, at the time, they appeared genuine.

“They said that they would draw up an invoice for the work, including VAT, and we could pay by cheque or transfer the money once the work was complete.

“However, when they turned up again the following day with their equipment they said they could not provide an invoice and would only take cash payment.

“That’s when alarm bells started ringing and we asked them to leave and threatened to call the police. They didn’t hang around after that.

“We rang the County Council and then Balfour Beatty who confirmed that the men did not work for them and that they would never offer this kind of service.

“This is obviously a scam and we’re very concerned that they may target more residents in the area, particularly older or more vulnerable people, who may not recognise they are conmen and will be left out of pocket.“

A spokesman for County Council contractor Balfour Beatty confirmed they would never offer to carry out private work for residents and any sub-contractors they use would always be able to prove that they were genuine highways workers working on behalf of the County Council.

John O’Brien, Acting County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “It is worrying that residents are being targeted by bogus workmen pretending to be legitimate County Council contractors.

“Thankfully no one has fallen for this scam yet but it is important we get the message out to residents to be on their guard.

“I would urge anyone who is approached by any workmen offering to provide private building work on behalf of the County Council to report it as soon as possible to the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06, or contact the Police as soon as possible,

 

 

Best Regards   John   John Wright MBE Chair. Sussex Neighbourhood Watch Federation. Mobile:   07917385213 Business:01444 247368 Email:enquiries@sussexnwfed.org.uk

Raves

As the warm weather continues and we get further into summer, raves are likely to take place. Sussex Police have already stopped several raves and will continue to do so when possible. Landowners and residents in rural areas can help by being vigilant in their area.
 
We ask you to report to the police immediately if a rave is seen or heard to be taking place. The earlier the police are alerted, the greater the chance of preventing them becoming established.
 
Keep an eye on access points to land and make sure they are secure. Please report any locks which have been broken or removed. Report any vehicles driving off-road, groups of vehicles in rural areas, convoys of vehicles and loud music in remote locations.
 
Police will use powers to confiscate equipment being used at raves and will deal with any unlawful activity when they can. Raves by their very nature are spontaneous and unpredictable and we urge people to report any behaviour which is suspicious.
 
The police have powers to to close down an event and the decison to do so will be carefully assessed to balance the safety of those attending and the threat posed to the local community.

Burglary - Wordsworth Place Horsham

Dear NHW Coordinator,

Serial 0210 of 17/06/14 relates to a burglary at a property in Horsham

Sometime between 11pm on Monday 16^th June and 7:40am on Tuesday 17^th June a property in Wordsworth Place was broken into.

It is currently unknown how the offender/s gained access to the house.

A gold Longchamp handbag and vehicle keys were taken from inside the property and a black BMW 530 with a personalised number plate was stolen from the driveway outside.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to please call 101 quoting Serial 0210 17/06/14.

 

Kind Regards

Louisa HULL

Temporary Public Engagement Officer
Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham.

Tel: 101 (Sussex) 530215 Twitter: @sussex_police

Email: louisa.hull@sussex.pnn.police.uk

Bogus Callers

Dear all,

 

Just for your awareness, Trading Standards received a phone call on Wednesday 11^th June reporting that f a male, dressed in a shirt and tie, was cold calling consumers in the Pulborough area advising them that roof surveys are going to be carried out in the Pulborough area over the weekend.  The male had no ID or business details and seemed suspicious.

 

If any suspicious activity is seen then please report it on 08454 040506 or by completing the online reporting form at http://www.westsussex.gov.uk/living/consumer_advice/contact_trading_standards.aspx, any additional information such as vehicle details, business details, would be most useful.

 

Whilst this has been reported in Pulborough, it also serves as a useful reminder to NHW members to report any suspicious behaviour such as this in their respective areas.

 

Please also report any suspicious behaviour or activity to Police.

 

Emma Walsh

Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham

Burglary and Crime Prevention

Dear Friends,

Please read below Burglaries that have occurred in Crawley and Horsham, West Sussex. They may come in to your area which is why I am sending this to you now, fore armed is fore warned, please be vigilant and report anything suspicious.

 

Sussex Police are currently investigating a number of burglaries across West Sussex over the last few months where gold is being stolen by criminals because of its high value. However it is important to emphasise that this does not appear to be a series aimed at victims because of their race or religion

 

A black Audi A3 vehicle has been seen in Crawley and Horsham and it is believed that the vehicle is being used by a group of men to commit these burglary offences. The vehicle has been using cloned number plates and has a distinctive red " Rembrance Day "poppy emblem on the grill at the front of the car located to the side of the number plate . The vehicle also has a distinvtive childs sun visor on the rear passenger door  window  . Any sightings of the vehicle please call in to 101.

It is worth reiterating how you can use the following  basic crime prevention tips to reduce the chance of you becoming a victim:

- If you leave your house empty - even when you are in the back garden - lock all the doors and windows and make sure fanlight windows are closed. Be especially careful about those on the ground floor and above flat roof areas.
- Put your garden tools and any ladders away into a secure garage or shed after using them. They could be used to break into your home or that of your neighbours.
- Double check fences and boundaries to make sure they keep burglars out.
- When you leave a room unattended, close and lock windows and doors - especially on the ground floor.
- If you want to leave windows open while you sleep, fit window restrictors so they cannot be fully opened, or make sure they are not large enough to allow access to a burglar.
- Keep all wallets, purses, credit cards, car keys and other valuables out of sight.
- Consider fitting outside security lighting or a visible alarm to help deter burglars.

If you would like a visit from a crime prevention officer, contact your local PCSO by visiting www.sussex.police.uk.

If you have any information about burglaries, please call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk. If you see or hear a burglary taking place call 999 immediately.

 

 

 Copied from email from  Inspector Rachel Carr, Crawley Police

 

Regards

 

 

John Wright MBE
Chairman
Sussex Federation Neighbourhood Watch
(   Mobile:      07917 385213
(   Business:    01444 247368
Email: john.w.wright@btinternet.com
Web: www.sussexnwfed.org.uk

Burglaries - Horsham

Serial 1555 of 23/05/14 relates to an attempt burglary at a property in Blunts Way, Horsham.

 

At around 2100 hours on Friday 23^rd May, a property in Blunts Way, Horsham has had offender/s try to gain entry.

 

It would appear that whilst the occupants were at home, they heard banging coming from downstairs, the occupant has shouted and gone downstairs to find the door slightly ajar, but still on the chain.

 

Tool marks were found around the door frame, so it would appear the offender/s tried to gain entry by forcing the front door.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting 1555 of 23/05/14.

 

**********

 Sometime between Monday 19^th May and Sunday 25^th May, a property in Tanbridge Park, Horsham has been broken into.

 It is not known exactly when the break occurred or what was stolen as the occupants were on holiday.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain entry by forcing a patio door to the rear of the property.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting 0508 of 25/05/14.

 

**********

Serial 1122 of 25/05/14 relates to an attempt burglary at a property in Hernbrook Drive, Horsham.

 

Sometime between 0900 hours on Friday 23^rd May and 1200 hours on Sunday 25^th May, a property in Hernbrook Drive has had offender/s try to gain entry.

 

No entry was gained to the property, but it would appear the offender/s tried to enter through the front door which showed signs of being forced.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting 1122 of 25/05/14.

 

Emma Walsh

PCSO Public Engagement Officer
 

Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham

Tel: 101 (Sussex) Ext. 530214 Mobile: 07717700807 Twitter: @Horsham_police

Scams awareness month 2014

Scams awareness month 2014

May 2014 is scams awareness month.  What are scams?  Scams are schemes to con people out of their money.  Scams reach us all in a variety of ways: post, phone, email, online, even a knock at the door.  Every year more than 3 million people in the UK fall victim to scams, losing hundreds and sometimes thousands of pounds.

To avoid becoming a scam victim remember:

• If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

• It you haven’t bought a ticket – you can’t win it.

• You shouldn’t have to pay anything to get a prize.

• If in doubt, don’t reply. Bin it, delete it or hang up.

• Persuasive sales patter? Just say: “No thank you”.

• Contacted out of the blue – be suspicious.

• Never give out your bank details unless you are certain you can trust the person contacting you.

• Take your time – resist pressure to make a decision straight away.

• Never send money to someone you don’t know.

• Walk away from job ads that ask for money in advance.

• Your bank will never attend your home.

• Your bank and the police will never collect your bank card.

• Your bank and the police will never ask for your PIN.

• Computer firms do not make unsolicited phone calls to help you fix your computer.

• Don’t suffer in silence – tell others about scams.

Stop scams!

CHECK unexpected calls, letters, and online contacts with someone you trust.

GET ADVICE - the Citizens Advice consumer service 08454 04 05 06 can provide advice and pass details on to Trading Standards.

REPORT scams or suspected scams to Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 www.actionfraud.police.uk.

To report an incident or concern direct to West Sussex Trading Standards Service go to www.westsussex.gov.uk/tsreport

 

A comprehensive scam guide containing lots of practical advice is available at http://www.met.police.uk/docs/little_book_scam.pdf

 

Best regards

 

John

 

John Wright MBE
Chairman
Sussex Federation Neighbourhood Watch
(   Mobile:      07917 385213
(   Business:    01444 247368
Email: john.w.wright@btinternet.com
Web: www.sussexnwfed.org.uk

burglary at a property in Birches Road, Horsham.

Serial 0906of 16/05/14 relates to a burglary at a property in Birches Road, Horsham.

 

Sometime between 0845 hours and 1525 hours on Friday 16^th May, a property in Birches Road, Horsham has been broken into.

 

It is not known exactly how the offender/s were able to gain entry, however it is believed it was possibly through a window.

 

An Apple I-Pad was stolen.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting 0906 of 16/05/14.

 

Emma Walsh

PCSO Public Engagement Officer
 

Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham

Tel: 101 (Sussex) Ext. 530214 Mobile: 07717700807 Twitter: @Horsham_police

burglary at a property in Pondtail Park, Horsham.

Serial 1009 of 08/05/14 relates to a burglary at a property in Pondtail Park, Horsham.

 

Sometime between 0800 hours and 1630 hours on Thursday 8^th May, a property in Pondtail Park,. Horsham has been broken into.

 

It would appear the offender/s were able to gain access by forcing a window.

 

Various items of gold jewellery were stolen.

 

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 101 quoting 1009 of 08/05/14.

 

Emma Walsh

PCSO Public Engagement Officer
 

Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham

Tel: 101 (Sussex) Ext. 530214 Mobile: 07717700807 Twitter: @Horsham_police

Scam Calls

Dear all,

 

Please be aware that this morning we have received several reports from members of the public advising us that they have had a suspicious phone call.

 

The person calling will state that they are ringing from a Police Station somewhere in the Country and that they have managed to arrest someone trying to buy an expensive item such as a Rolex watch using that persons debit card.

 

The person calling state they are an officer and then ask questions such as whether the account is joint etc.

 

If the person responding provides any answers, they will then ask the person to attend a bank and withdraw money, the person calling will put the phone on hold and will send a courier who is most likely already in the area, to come and pick the money up.

 

Please be aware this is a scam which Police are aware of and should you receive a call such as this to please report it on 101.

 

Emma Walsh

PCSO Public Engagement Officer
 

Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham

Tel: 101 (Sussex) Ext. 530214 Mobile: 07717700807 Twitter: @Horsham_police

Security Advice

Dear all,

This is to advise that as the warmer weather approaches, we have seen a significant increase in the amount of breaks to sheds and outbuildings being broken into across Horsham District. More specifically we have seen sheds and outbuildings being broken into in; Amberley, Washington, Storrington, Partridge Green, Dial Post, Billinghurst and Bramber.

Whilst some were left unlocked, others have had padlocks broken off. I have included some crime prevention advice which you might find useful in order to protect your property.

We are also encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity such as suspicious behaviour or suspicious vehicles to Police straight away.

Emma Walsh

PCSO Public Engagement Officer
Neighbourhood Policing Team, Horsham
Tel: 101 (Sussex) Ext. 530214 Mobile: 07717700807 Twitter: @Horsham_police

GARDEN AND SHED SECURITY:-

Remember,  that  if a thief  has  the opportunity to take as much time  as he wants  and  make as  much noise as he wants  with little chance of being disturbed, ( especially in isolated  locations ) then  he may well be able to overcome what ever security you have installed.

Wooden shed as are generally not strong enough to store high value items and you should seek alternative storage for them.   

The more variety of measures and the more layers of security you can provide will help deter or delay him and make him more vulnerable to being disturbed and increase the chances of being caught.  

To protect your shed as much as possible you should also consider the security provided by the surroundings in which it is located. Fit trellis to wooden fencing and consider spiky plants to deter climbing or fill gaps. (You may need to check with your local authority regarding local planning laws when extending the height of your fencing).

GARDEN GATES

• Unrestricted driveway access to your garden or an unlocked gate at the side of the house is a favourite and easy method for a thief to get into the rear of your property where he may be able to work unobserved. 

• Fit a hasp or bolt and padlock to the side gate. Make sure the gate and gatepost are not rotten and are located firmly in the ground so that they do move and cannot be levered apart.

This not only helps prevent entry. It also makes it more difficult to depart with your garden equipment. 

• Make sure your gates cannot be climbed over easily by topping with trellis or increasing their height. An alternative method is to fix strips of plastic wall spikes on top and which also come with warning signage. Check your gates will not lift of their hinge pins. 

• To ensure smaller hinges cannot be easily unscrewed, drill out the top of the groove or use dome headed coach bolts or one way clutch screws. It is no good locking the gate securely one side when it could be removed by attacking insecure hinges on the other. 

GARDEN IMPLEMENTS

• There is usually something a thief can find to use to break into your house or your neighbours house whilst you and they are out at work or way from the building. Smaller hand held tools such as Spades, crowbars, hammers, screwdrivers and chisels left in an insecure shed all save the trouble of carrying an instrument around , and which would  increase the thieves likelihood of being caught. 

             If you leave tools lying out in the garden, it is even easier for the thief. Loose bricks and building materials are also very handy for breaking windows.

• If gardens tools are valuable to you, then consider post coding them or marking them to make them easily identifiable to you, and less attractive to the thief.   Lock them securely away when not in use

• Larger tools such as motor mowers, quad bikes and ride on mowers need immobilising, and locking away out of sight and in a secure building or shed if possible.   Chaining them to an immovable object or preventing them from being removed from an area by other perimeter security measures may be enough to deter or frustrate the efforts of a thief. 
• Portable tools electrical tools such as angle grinders, drills and power saws are a favourite item to steal.  Petrol strimmers and hedge cutters another. 

SHEDS AND OUT BUILDINGS

• Sheds are not designed for secure storage. Do not leave valuables in them.

             If you cannot avoid doing so you should take adequate security measures.

• Ensure the shed is sound and repair or replace any damaged or decaying panels. 

• Chain and padlock together the more expensive items. It is much more difficult for a thief trying to remove a mower and bike chained together. Even more so if the chain is also padlocked or secured to the concrete floor, other suitable immovable object or ground anchor. 

• Prevent unauthorised access to your garden shed by fitting a good closed shackle padlock and hasp and staple. 

             Make sure the fittings are reinforced on the inside of the shed so they cannot be pulled out especially if the wooden frame is weak. Reinforce the frame if necessary. 

• Use smooth headed coach bolts or burr the tops of screws so they cannot be undone.  Try not to leave large gaps where a lever could be forced in between, to prize the lock or hasp away from the frame. ‘One way, clutch head’ screws which can be tightened but not unscrewed are also available. 

• Alternatives are ‘shed bars’ which fit completely across the shed door and lock to the door frame on either side. ( Look for  Sold Secure  and Secure by Design products )

• Battery operated shed alarms are readily available and not expensive in comparison to the value of what might be stolen.  Newer versions can come with a system for sending a text message to you when activated. 
• If the contents of your shed are very high and there are no other options for storage, then consider a mains powered burglar alarm system.

• For buildings within the grounds of your property consider installing or extending   the house burglar alarm.  If your property is remote, a burglar alarm with an auto dial which can phone you when it activates, may be a preferred option to a ‘bells only’ system relying on neighbours to hear it.  

• Prevent the thief from seeing inside the building. Covering shed windows with a curtain or whitewash can act as a deterrent. What the thief can’t see he may not be bothered with. If the risk is high, consider a heavy metal mesh or polycarbonate sheeting on the inside of the window securely fitted.

FENCES AND HEDGES

• Check the state of your garden fences. Carry out repairs after the winter.  Consider topping close boarded wooden fencing with trellis. Grow spiky or prickly plants such as climbing roses into it make it more difficult to climb over. Ensure fence panels are fitted securely and cannot be levered out of the vertical posts, and make sure those posts are firmly located and cannot move.   

  

• Thorny plants planted in vulnerable border areas can also be a good deterrent but do not let them grow too high as they might provide concealment for an intruder. 

• There may be local planning regulations regarding the height of front garden fences and hedgerows or whether the garden must remain ‘open plan’. 

• Don’t forget visibility from you driveway onto the road, or the effects a large hedgerow or fence may have on road traffic and drivers view at junctions.    

• If you consider using barbed wire, spikes, anti climb paint etc, the Householders Liability Act 1984 needs to be taken into consideration along with any local bye laws or regulations about its use, especially alongside public footpaths, rights of way and highways. 

• Larger trees and bushes growing close to your fence and items such as wheelie bins can be used as natural ladders to climb over your fence.

OCCUPIERS LIABILITY ACT 1984

For security purposes this generally applies to materials such as barbed wire, anti climb paint or types of security toppings on a roof, wall or fencing.  

Home Office Guidance states:-

• The circumstances in which an occupier of property may be liable to a negligence claim by a person who has been injured while trespassing on their property are governed by the Occupiers' Liability Act 1984, which defines in statute the duty of care owed by an occupier. The Act places a duty on occupiers to prevent injury to trespassers by ordinary hazards which may be found on the premises or by hazards that have been deliberately placed there by the occupier as a means of protecting the premises against trespassers.

The 1984 Act states that the occupier owes a duty only if:-

1. He  is aware or has reasonable grounds to know of the danger ,
2. He knows or has reasonable grounds to believe that the trespasser may come into the vicinity of the danger and 
3. The risk is one against which, in all the circumstances of the case, he may reasonably be expected to offer some protection. 
4. The duty can be discharged by taking reasonable steps to give warning of the danger or to discourage people from incurring the risk, and no duty is owed where the risk is willingly accepted by the trespasser. 

The determination of liability in individual cases is a matter for the courts, having due regard to all the circumstances of the case and the actions and standards that it is reasonable to expect from each of the parties involved.       (http://www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk/burglary/burglaryminisite09.htm).

LIGHTING

• Consider an outside security light which activates with movement (don’t blind the neighbours with an excessively bright one) 

• In gardens regularly visited by cats and foxes at night, alternative low energy lighting with dusk to dawn timers could be considered. This form of lighting can remain on all night and give an ambient glow, but at low cost and environmental impact. 

• Lighting placed in an area where no one can see what happens under it, may help the criminal see what he is doing, where as lighting which reveals a person to the view of passers by or residents may be sufficient to reveal an identity or be sufficient to prevent criminal activities.   

PROPERTY MARKING /POST CODING

• You can property mark expensive items with your post code and photograph difficult to describe objects to aid identification. (There are many ways of marking property. Die stamping, etching, using ultra violet marker, permanent marker, smart water or micro dots, DNA grease etc) or sacrificial marking such as painting your mower with a bright coloured paint or marking with a permanent marker, to such an extent it makes it so obvious that it would make it unattractive for the thief to steal and increase his chance of being caught if found with it.  

INSURANCE

• Check whether you need additional cover on your household Insurance to cover your shed or, outbuilding and contents. Some large garden items such as expensive statues or garden furniture may need separate insurance.