Shed Security Appeal

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a number of break-ins to sheds and garages in the area.
Over the weekend (13-16/06), sheds in Tiddington, Forest Hill, and Stanton St John were targeted.

Incidents took place in Stanton Road Forest Hill on Monday and Tuesday (15/16th) between 5pm and 11am. Main Street, Forest Hill on Saturday (14/01) between 10am and 9.45pm. Ickford Road, Tiddington on Saturday (14/01) and Brookside Tiddington sometime between Thursday and Friday (11/13-01).

Items stolen include golf clubs, mini-motor bikes and quad bikes, wine and garden equipment.

Lesley Nesbitt, Thame’s Crime Reduction Advisor, is urging residents to upgrade the security on their sheds.
There has been a mail drop in Tiddington and Stanton St John encouraging people to review their current security arrangements.

Lesley Nesbitt said:”Offenders see sheds as easy pickings because they are unprotected and lack basic security measures. The sheds often contain property that can be sold on or implements that can be used to force entry into the owner?s home.
“Spring is coming and crime figures show that this season sees an increase in the number of shed burglaries. Take time to implement a few simple, cost effective-crime prevention measures to keep your shed secure.
“This time of year many people buy new lawn mowers and gardening equipment which makes sheds an attractive target. Make sure you shackle lawn mowers and bicycles together, ideally to the fabric of the building or to a metal post cemented into the ground.”

If you are a shed owner follow this advice:

?Ensure that your shed is in good condition: replace ordinary screws in door hinges and on the pad bars with non-return screws or coach bolts.
?Ensure all tools and equipment are locked away when not in use. Good quality locks should be used on doors. Windows can be fitted with a grille or, as a cheaper alternative, chicken wire to slow the thief down. A shed alarm can also be installed.
?Post code or mark all property, such as lawnmowers, using ultra violet pens, paint or engravers.
?Install lighting as a deterrent, and use thorny shrubs to act as a barrier at potential access points.
?If building a shed, put it where it is most visible to you and neighbours.

For more crime reduction advice on shed security please contact Lesley Nesbitt at Thame Police Station on 0845 8 505 505

Anyone who witnessed any suspicious vehicles or people in the areas or has any information are asked to police via 0845 8 505 505. If you don?t want to talk to police and don?t want to give your name, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

You can also give information to the police in person by visiting any police station. To find out the opening times and location of your local station please call 0845 8 505 505 or visit: www.thamesvalley.police.uk/bcu/oxfordshire/bcu-info/stations.htm