Extra Police On Duty In South Shropshire During Festive Season

Police in south Shropshire will step up their front-line activities during the festive season to help maintain public safety and prevent people from becoming victims of crime.

Extra patrols will be on duty across the area, especially on the key dates of December 23, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

Sergeant Mike Dulson, in charge of Local Policing in south Shropshire, said: "The measures are part of the West Mercia's Christmas Presence operation.  We want people to have a good time but we want them to stay safe, avoid trouble and not lose control through excessive drinking.

"To this end, there will be an increased number of officers across the whole of south Shropshire during the party season to maintain order, uphold public safety and to provide reassurance to our local communities."

He also urged people to take sensible precautions to reduce the risk of becoming victims of crime.

Police officers are currently working with Shropshire Council, targeting busy car parks in Ludlow reminding drivers not to keep valuables, including Christmas shopping, on show in their vehicles.

"Vehicles can be particularly vulnerable at this time of the year and we are encouraging people to adopt measures which will help keep them safe and secure.

"The owners of any vehicle found with valuables on display will be sent a letter, reminding them to keep items out of sight.  I urge everyone to be vigilant and to take extra care to hopefully avoid becoming a victim."

Sergeant Dulson also urged people to use the National Property Register where they can upload photographs of valuable property to assist the police identify stolen items in the event of a burglary.  "I encourage everyone to use this site, http://www.immobilise.com/  to help protect their property."

The risk of having your home broken into can also be reduced by ensuring a light is on during darkness when away from home.  "If you are going out for the evening, leave several lights on  and I would also strongly recommend the use of timer switches.  These can be bought for a few pounds from any DIY store and by being set to come on as soon as darkness falls, they give the impression someone is at home.  They really are a great investment," said Sergeant Dulson.

He also reminded drivers the West Mercia Police drink drive campaign is already underway.  "Drink drivers wreck lives so don't become one of them.  Leave the car at home if you plan to go out and drink and remember you can still be well over the limit by morning following a night out."

South Shropshire's Local Policing Teams also have a raft of initiatives lined up for early in the New Year.  They include security marking of bikes during school visits; promoting the work of Crimestoppers using the anonymous number 0800 555 111 for giving information; and providing advice on protecting oil tanks to reduce oil thefts.

Issued: Thursday, 08 December 2011