Thame Neighbourhood policing update for May 2010
THE latest Thame neighbourhood update from Police Community Support Officers (PCSO) Diane Jackson and Lucy Thorne, which keeps local people informed about local policing issues, follows in full:
Crime information
Following the burglaries in March 2010 on the Lea Park Housing Estate, the Thame neighbourhood team hand delivered a crime prevention letter to 1,491 houses providing suitable advice to help keep the neighbourhood safe.
On 24 April, at approximately 2.45am, an assault occurred in Rooks Lane, Thame. Police are appealing for witnesses. If anybody knows any further information, please contact Thames Valley police on 0845 8 505 505.
Two men have been charged with distraction burglaries which took place last October and November in Thame and the surrounding areas.
Following the robbery at Robert Gatward Jewellers in Thame on 15 April, police are appealing for witnesses. Please contact us on 0845 8 505 505 if you have any information.
An incident has been reported at Sycamore Drive, Thame, where criminal damage to a vehicle has been caused. Police are monitoring the area, and look to take positive action if/when the offender is caught.
Crime mapping
Crime mapping shows an increase in burglary from March 2009 and March 2010. In 2009, there were two burglaries reported in Thame, compared to eight in March 2010. We are hoping that the leaflet drop on the targeted estate, together with the police operation signs located at key access points to the estate will help to deter criminal activity.
Anti Social Behaviour (ASB) information
Throughout April, the weather has improved, which has encouraged groups of young people to gather in park/grass areas. We have continued to conduct high visibility patrols, focusing on these areas to challenge any ASB and offer suitable advice around lighting BBQs and littering etc. During April, we have been able to liaise with members of the public more than usual, which has enabled us to build a good rapport with people of all ages. PCSO Thorne has dealt with reports of ASB along the riverside, Priest End. There have been reports of groups of young people lighting BBQs and burning trees and also leaving litter behind, which looks unsightly. We would like to stress health and safety issues around this matter and urge that if you do have a BBQ anywhere, that you consider the location and remain sensible whilst the fire is alight. Please also take carrier bags with you, and use the bins provided at various locations around the town for your litter. We are pleased to share that we have had no alcohol seizures throughout the month, which is very positive considering the weather conditions.
Neighbourhood priorities
The Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) priority for Thame is anti-social behaviour (ASB). Key areas are patrolled and any ASB is dealt with and youths are moved on if necessary. Where needed, home visits are carried out with parents present.
PCSO Jackson carried out a site inspection with South Oxfordshire Housing Association during April went very well. A visual inspection was conducted. PCSO Thorne has worked with Anchor to provide better security for an elderly man in Thame.
Country Watch meetings are being held quarterly. The Thame Pubwatch meeting, which was held at the end of March, was a success. New folders were produced containing up to date information about the scheme and the banned list. Unfortunately, we have had to bring 10 more members of the public to the banned list following recent incidents in the town.
On 29 April, PCSO Jackson attended a meeting regarding the Cuttlebrook, where the general safety and maintenance of the area was discussed.
There are monthly operations planned for Country Watch. The neighbourhood team will also be holding a post-coding event at 2-Wheels bike shop during school holidays, where anybody will be welcome, adults and children. Bring your bikes and scooters, we?ll code them! A talk to the Rainbows is also planned for the 15 June 2010.
PCSO Jackson and PCSO Thorne conducted an Environmental Visual Audit (EVA) on 28 April, which was focused on the Phoenix Trail and Moorend Lane. On Saturday 24 April, PCSO Thorne attended a Cycle Exchange Event at Barley Hill Primary School, which was very enjoyable. A total of 15 pushbikes were post-coded and general road safety and bike safety advice was given. The children had the opportunity to look around a police car, which they thoroughly enjoyed. On Wednesday 28 April, PCSO Jackson and PCSO Thorne attended Pearce Court and delivered a crime reduction talk at a coffee morning to all residents. Many turned up and we had positive feedback from residents and staff.
The Have Your Say meetings for May will be held at Thame police station between 6pm and 8pm on Wednesday 12 May and between 3pm and 5pm on Monday 24. These meetings are an ideal opportunity for local residents to speak to their local police officers and PCSOs about any local issues, no appointment is necessary, just turn up and speak to your local officers. Further surgeries will be publicised locally and on the Force website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk.
If you want any advice or would like to contact the neighbourhood team you can call us on the police non emergency number 0845 8 505 505 or email ThameNHPT@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk. Please note this email address cannot be used to contact Thames Valley Police to report crimes or for any urgent matters. Alternatively you can visit the force website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk to view information on your neighbourhood.
Submitted: 17/05/10
