Quantock Hills. An Area of Outstanding Beauty

1. Theft from motor vehicles - there is an increase in theft of property from vehicles both in Bridgwater and in some of the villages, whether it is from private vehicles or from commercial ones. Please ensure that vehicles are left secure whenever they are unattended and that no items are left on display inside the vehicle. Simple things such as coats, bags, loose change can be a temptation to those with criminal intent. Apart from the loss of property, there is always damage to be sorted out which can cause huge inconveniences and distress to the victim. Reduce the likelihood of you becoming a victim of crime by taking a little time to check your vehicle is secure. 2. Theft of scrap metal - this is taking place largely in rural areas, but anyone with such items likely to be vulnerable. This type of crime is increasing once more due to the better prices available for scrap - and includes the theft of considerable amounts of electric cable (for the copper inside it). Again police advice is to put such items into safe storage wherever possible, if it is new stock such as cable then don't have too much around and again lock it away - if items are not suitable for storage and are not wanted then consider disposing of it yourself. 3. Finally there are an increasing number of pedal cycles being stolen in the town and rural areas. These are being stolen from sheds, garages, when they are locked outside of properties/shops as well as when they are left insecure. Some have been recovered and their rightful owner identified through the cycles being postcoded and/or recorded on the Immobilise Database (a free database where you can record many of your household items - http://www.immobilise.com) If you have information about any crime, phone the police on 0845 456 7000 or you can call anonymously to the independent charity CRIMESTOPPERS 0800 555 111. For general information about Neighbourhood Watch nationally see the http://www.mynhw.co.uk website.