The Neighbourhood Watch Scheme for Chediston has been re-organised. Your coordinator is David Mantell.  Full details will follow in due course. If you wish to contact your NHW team or should you need further information, phone 01986-785440 or click here: contact NHW

To phone the Police Contact Centre to report less urgent matters 01473-613500; please also then pass any such messages on to the local NHW as above.

IN ALL CASES OF EMERGENCY, CONTACT THE POLICE ON – 999


SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD TEAM INFORMATION

Read Information about our local Police Safer Neighbourhood Team.  Click on the link:
http://www.onesuffolk.co.uk/safersuffolk/southwoldandhalesworth

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 13-19 March 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter1319March10.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 6-12 March 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter612March10.pdf

FARM EQUIPMENT THEFTS - BE ALERT

Between 9am Wednesday 24th February and 8am Monday 1st March on Cherry Hill, Barton Mills offenders have stolen a green and yellow John Deere tractor vehicle registration AE06 VHF from a field where it had been left secure.

Also

Between 11am Sunday 28th February and 7am Monday 1st March on Lion Road, Palgrave offenders have entered a farm and stolen a diesel generator, pressure washer, angle grinder and diesel from two tractors.

If you have any information that could help Police please call Suffolk Police on 01473 613500 quoting reference MH/10/418 and ST/10/668.

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team



LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 20-26 February 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter2026February10.pdf


HEATING OIL THEFTS

The following issued by the Police to NHW:

I know Sternfield is a distance from some of you, BUT, best be fore warned.  Please share with your schemes.  Intel has suggested a white transit vehicle may be involved.  Please be vigilant and report any suspicions to your SNT or Martlesham 01473 613500
Regards
Anne

LE/10/203    THEFT - OTHER             SANDY LANE    STERNFIELD between 05/02/10 and
20/02/10
OVER A PERIOD OF AT LEAST TWO WEEKS UNKNOWN PERSON STOLE CENTRAL
HEATING OIL FROM STORAGE TANK IN GROUNDS OF DETACHED HOLIDAY HOME
IN RESIDENTIAL SEASIDE LOCUS BY UNKNOWN MEANS


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 13-19 February 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter1319February10.pdf

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 6-12 February 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter612February10.pdf



LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 31 January - 5th February 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter31January5Feb2010.pdf

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 23-29 January 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter2329Jan10.pdf

TRACTOR STOLEN

Watch out - there are thieves about stealing agricultural equipment. Police Direct Report as follows:

Between 3.45pm Tuesday 26th and 7.15am Wednesday 27th January on Hinderclay Road, Redgrave offenders have cut a padlock from a gate to a farmyard and have then stolen a red Massey Ferguson tractor registration B163 DEG.

If you have any information that could help Police please call Suffolk Police on 01284 774100 quoting reference ST/10/264.

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+
To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team


THEFTS FROM SUFFOLK CHURCHES

Theft of lead from a stained glass window and from a church roof has been reported as part of three separate incidents involving thefts from rural churches in Suffolk recently. The first incident was reported yesterday, Friday 22nd January, as having occurred between the 19th and 22nd January, two further incidents have been reported today Saturday 23rd January.

Please be aware of these incidents and report any damage to or any suspicious activity around churches to 01473 613500, particularly in the more rural and isolated areas. If you have reason to believe a crime may be in progress please use 999

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+
To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team




LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 16-22 January 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter1622Jan2010.pdf

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 9-15 January 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBecclesNewsletter915Jan10.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 02-08 JANUARY 2010

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterJan28.pdf

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 19-24  December 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterDec1924.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 12-18 December 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletter1218Dec09.pdf



LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 05-11 December 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterDec511.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 28 November - 4 December 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletter28Nov4Dec09.pdf


POLICE DIRECT CRIME NOTIFICATION - 28 NOV

Between 6pm Thursday 26 November and 9am Friday 27 November a single axle metal boat trailer has been stolen from a field near to The Street, Cratfield.

Were you in the area over the times given, did you see the boat trailer being moved, do you know who took it or where it is now?  Calls relating to this theft should be made to Leiston Police on 01986835300 reference LE/09/1688


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 21-27 November 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterNov2127.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 14-20 November 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterNov1420.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 7-13 November 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterNov71309.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 31 October- 6 November 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterOct31Nov.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 24-29 October 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterOct2429.pdf


SUFFOLK POLICE NOTICE - ILLEGAL RAVES ETC

Police are urging members of the public and landowners across Suffolk to report any suspicious activities in the run up to and during the Halloween weekend, in a bid to crackdown on illegal raves in the county.
 
Warnings are also being issued to anyone organising an illegal rave that any sound equipment found would be seized, causing significant financial loss to organisers.
 
Residents play a key role in preventing raves. By reporting any suspicious activities - such as trespassers taking an interest in what could be a potential rave site, or invasions onto land by people with vans suitable for transporting sound equipment - they can play an important part in preventing an event from taking place.
 
Officers are also urging landowners to remain vigilant and immediately report any activity, which may lead them to suspect a rave is being organised on their land. Extra care should be taken to ensure that property entrances are secured wherever this is possible.
 
Illegal rave organisers have little concern for the health, safety and welfare of those attending the event, or for the local residents, who are adversely affected by the rave. Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies are collaborating this weekend to prevent, detect and disrupt illegal raves in both counties.
 
Chief Superintendent David McDonnell said: I want to warn anyone who is considering organising a rave, that they will face prosecution for holding such an event - we have successfully prosecuted people who have organised raves in Suffolk in the past. We will also seek to prosecute anyone attending a rave who commits other offences, such as damage. 
 
I would also like to take the opportunity to appeal for the publics help to tackle this issue. Early information from the public is critical if we are to prevent a rave from taking place. If we get reliable and timely information about where and when an event is being set up, generally we can get to the site, identify the organisers and seize sound and other equipment before the rave begins. 
 
There are some cases where a rave is up and running with large crowds already present. In these instances it may be necessary to manage the event where it is, monitoring it closely to ensure, as far as possible, the safety of those attending. Vehicles trying to get on or off site will be stopped and dealt with for any offences they might be committing. Where possible the organisers will be identified and dealt with at the end of the event, which will be closed as soon as it is safe to do so.
 
Any suspicious activity which may be connected to an illegal rave should be
reported to police immediately, dialling 999 if necessary or 01473 613500.




LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 17-23 October 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterOct1723.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 10-16 October 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterOct1016.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 03-09 October 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterOct39.pdf


INCIDENT HALESWORTH - 29/09/09

Between 8.30am and 5.30pm Tuesday 29th September a house in Wissett Road Halesworth has been broken into.  A wallet, store cards, cash and jewellery including a silver brooch with a Mona Lisa image in the centre, a gold charm bracelet and a mans gold wedding ring are amongst the items stolen.

Anyone with information relating to this burglary, the whereabouts of the stolen items or who took them is asked to contact Beccles police on 01986835300 reference BE/09/1311


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 19-25 SEPTEMBER 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterSept1925.pdf


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 28 August - 04 SEPTEMBER 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterAug28Sept04.pdf


INCIDENT ILKETSHALL ST. LAWRENCE - 25/09/09

BURGLARY - OTHER BUILDING WITH INTENT
SHED AND GARAGE OF BAKERS PIECE
ILKETSHALL ST ANDREW
Between - 1700 25/09/09] Friday and 1300 26/09/09] Saturday

OVERNIGHT ENTRY WAS GAINED TO A NISSAN HUT AND A GARAGE TO THE FRONT
OF IPS ISOLATED RESIDENTIAL LOCUS WHISLT LEFT SECURE AND UNATTENDED
ENTRY GAINED BY TAKING PAIR OF SECATEURS FROM IPS GREENHOUSE AND USING
THESE TO FORCE PADLOCKS OF SHED AND GARAGE DOOR BUT ONCE ENTRY GAINED
NOTHING TAKEN FROM WITHIN






LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 22-27 August 2009

Read the information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterAug2227.pdf


BANK CARD SKIMMING - HALESWORTH ETC. 23 AUGUST

Police are urging anyone using cashpoint machines to be alert after card skimming devices were used on several ATMs in Waveney recently.
A man had gone to the Barclays cashpoint in the Thoroughfare at Halesworth on Wednesday 12 August and struggled to insert his card into the machine. When he tried to get his card out again the machine shut down. He returned to the bank in the morning to report that his card had been swallowed but no trace was found. It appears there had been device on the machine and the card owner subsequently noticed fraudulent use of his card.
It appears a similar incident occurred on Sunday 23 August at the same cashpoint. A check was made after it was discovered the cash machine wasnt working and tape was found near the card slot. It appears the device may have been placed on the machine around 8.35pm on Sunday night.
And another incident occurred at the ATM at the Rainbow store in Gosford Road in Beccles, probably in the early hours of yesterday, Wednesday 26 August. An electronic fault was detected and an engineer discovered a camera and card reader had been installed on the machine.
Police are urging anyone using a cashpoint machine to alert officers immediately using 999 if they notice anything suspicious. Please check to see if there is anything attached to the machine, cover the key pad when entering your PIN and call police if you see anyone hanging around or tampering with the machine.
Anyone with information about any of these incidents should call Beccles Police on 01986 835300


Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+
To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team

ATTEMPTED BURGLARY - CHEDISTON 25/08/09

LE/09/1248   BURGLARY - DWELLING       NOSTREETNAME  CHEDISTON    25/08/09
DURING THE HOURS OF DARKNESS IN RURAL SECLUDED LOCATION WALKED UP TO
UNATTENDED SECURE DETACHED BUNGALOW IN THE GROUNDS OF A LARGE COUNTRY
HALL AND ATTEMPTED TO GAIN ENTRY INTO THE BUNGALOW BY FORCING OPEN THE
FRONT WOODEN DOOR CAUSING DAMAGE TO IT THE UPON BEING SEEN DOING THIS
RAN OFF ACROSS FIELDS IN UNKNOWN DIRECTION FALLING TO GAIN ANY ENTRY
INTO THE BUNGALOW OR TAKING ANYTHING

HORSE OWNERS

 

A scheme aiming to reduce rural and equine crime. Membership tp Suffolk Horsewatch is free.  Ideally every horse owner should be registered on the POLICE DIRECT system to help reduce certain crimes by being aware of them in the first place.  This is a free communication service between you and Suffolk Police via a high-tech messaging facility. You can choose how you want to receive messages - email, text, voice mail, landline or all of these.

If you want more details, please contact your Neighbourhood Watch coordinator or email horsewatch@suffolk.pnn.police.uk


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 15-21 August 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterAug1521.pdf


POLICE DIRECT MESSAGE AUG 21

In other parts of the country criminals have been stopped with an extension type tow bar fitting, designed to fit over tow bars with locks fitted. As such it would be possible to tow away the trailer safely even with the tow hitch still locked on. We have also seen the use of chains to simply provide a means of towing trailers away with hitch locks fitted. We strongly advice that trailers left unattended are fitted with a secure wheel lock or are securely fastened to a immovable object or ground anchor.


Police Direct Team


LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 08-14 August 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterAug814.pdf


SOLAR LIGHTS THEFTS - AUG14

OVER A PERIOD OF FIVE DAYS OFFENDER ENTERED FRONT GARDEN OF A SEMI
DETACHED HOUSE IN RURAL LOCATION OF HALESWORTH ROAD, LINSTEAD AND STOLE 4 SOLAR POWERED LIGHTS

FISHING THEFTS - AUG12

Over recent weeks there has been an increase in fishing equipment thefts across Suffolk.

Items have been stolen in burglaries and whilst people are out fishing especially at night

when fishing rods are left outside tents.

Police would like to advise people to UV pen mark all of your equipment with your postcode so if the property is recovered it can be easily identified and returned
to the rightful owner.

Pens can be obtained from your local Police Station.

Or

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police
about this incident.

www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report+Information+To
+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN

IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

Police Direct Team

LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 01-07 August 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterAug1709.pdf

TELEPHONE SCAM - 6 AUGUST 2009

Norfolk Police have been made us aware of a BT collection service scam
which is believed to be a National fraud.

The details are as follows:-

A professional sounding adult male phones the victim (victims chosen
are listed in the phone directory) stating he is calling from BT
Collection Service because money is owed to BT. The caller states that
the (victims) bank has stopped the Direct Debit and that money is
immediately owed, failure to pay will result in their phone being cut
off. The amount that is allegedly 'owed' has been less than £10
(typically £9). The caller requires the victims credit card details so
that payment can be made. The caller also 'proves' he can easily cut off
the victims phone telling them to hang up and try dialling out, it is
then believed he puts them on 'hold' so that the line is still connected
but of course the victim believes their line has been disconnected. The
offender then phones them back and again attempts to obtain their credit
card detail. The main object is not the £9 but is to obtain the credit
card data. The caller is described as very professional sounding.

Should you receive such a call then they should immediately contact the
BT Nuisance Call Bureau on 0800 411 422.   Please be aware and do not
give any personal details out over the phone.




LOCAL CRIME INCIDENTS & POLICE POLICIES - 31 July 2009

Read the latest information regarding crimes and motoring checks in our local areas plus Police Policies for our locality. Click on the Link: NHWBeclesNewsletterJuly3109.pdf 


POLICE ALERT - 23/07/09
Police are appealing for information after a number of shotguns and
boxes of ammunition were stolen in a house burglary at Rumburgh on
Thursday 23 July.

Someone broke into the house in Mill Road between 9.05am and 1.35pm,
made a search and located the gun cabinet. It was pulled from the wall
and stolen. The brown cabinet contained six shotguns of various makes
and a quantity of ammunition.

Two antique figurines – one of a woman sitting on a shell, the other
depicting a man carrying a basket on his shoulder - were also stolen.

Police are investigating if there are any links between this burglary
and two other break-ins that occurred on Thursday – one at Wash Lane
at Wissett between 10.15am and 1pm where a quantity of cash was stolen
and another at Southwold Road, Halesworth, between 7.30am and 3pm, where
it’s thought a quantity of jewellery was taken.

Officers are also looking to see if there are links to two people
arrested. A 19-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy are currently in
custody at Lowestoft Police Station after reports someone had discharged
weapons from a vehicle in Ilketshall St Andrew around 8pm.

Firearms officers stopped the vehicle a short time later and discovered
a shotgun and shotgun cartridges.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the relevant
areas around these times who may have seen anything suspicious.

Anyone with information about any of these incidents is asked to call
Beccles CID on 01986 835300.



UPDATE 21/07/09 TO NHW ALERT 16/07/09

Police have carried an investigation and can confirm that the person in question is in fact a genuine meter reader employed by Accuread on behalf of EDF Electricityand other suppliers. We have also had a call from the manager of Accuread confirming this. Apparently the meter reader DID have a genuine reason to be at the property in Shop Row.  Accuread say that their reader should have been wearing his official yellow jacket but had removed it because it was hot.  The bottles in his car were soft drinks from a supermarket in readiness for his children's party. The guy accepts that he could have been smarter and we understand that he has been dealt with by his superiors. If anyone has any problems in the future, do not hesitate to contact your NHW team or the Police direct on 01473-613500.  Never be afraid to check the ID and phone number on a tardesman's card - that is its purpose. Also Accuread's phone number is 0845-3003177.
Well done to Chediston residents who reported the incident to our NHW and then subsequently spotted the chap the following day which led to this investigation.  The system works to protect us all!!


£3,000,000 ASSETS SEIZED

In Suffolk over £3,000,000 in assets have been seized under the 'Proceeds of Crime Act 2002. Apparently 1 on 7 of us know of somebody who lives a lifestyle funded by crime. Make them pay. Help more be taken back. Visit www.makecriminalspay.co.uk


NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH ALERT 16/07/09

A man of vagrant appearance was challenged at Shop Row today.  He appears to have entered the gardens of the property.  When challenged for some ID he showed something that said Colin... on it and stated that he was on electricity business.  He had a scruffy car with a registration K and possibly 561.  His car had old bottles in it. Quite probably up to no good so please keep an eye out and report to NHW and the Police if you see him. Keep gates etc locked. This incident has been reported to the Police.

It has been kindly reported by another villager that this chap is probably a genuine meter reader.  We are checking this out at present, but it would apear that there is no cause for alarm.  Incidentally the police have been interested as there was a distraction burglary in Yoxford this week and the descriptions may have been similar! An update will be published as soon as more is known.


LATITUDE FESTIVAL

Police are advising those heading to the Latitude Festival in north east Suffolk next week to keep a close eye on their valuables after a spate of thefts from tents at last years event.
The festival, being held at Henham from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 July, is expected to attract thousands of music lovers and many will be camping on the site for the weekend.
More than 100 thefts were reported at the event last year and police are urging all those attending to take sensible precautions to try to prevent becoming a victim of crime.
Thefts occurred both from tents and from individuals watching acts and in many cases last year, and at other festivals so far this summer, items were stolen from tents while the occupants were actually asleep inside.
In some cases offenders will enter by unzipping the tent but in other cases tents have been slashed to gain entry. There have also been instances when the victims were awoken by the offender being in their tent - in one case the offender shone a torch in their eyes and apologised stating that they were in the wrong tent which persuaded the victim to go back to sleep, not realising that a theft had taken place.
In a bid to try to prevent thefts police are advising.
Think about the valuable items and cash you are taking with you don't take more than you need.
If you do need to take items such as phones and cameras make sure they are registered on the Immobilise database - registration is free at www.immobilise.com   - and store them securely by making use of the on-site property lock-ups.
NEVER leave valuable items or cash unattended in your tent.
When sleeping put your valuables inside your sleeping bag. At one festival recently free drawstring bags were handed out for visitors to put items in to put in their sleeping bag. All the thefts reported were from individuals who had ignored the warnings and not made use of the bags. Tuck your valuables well within your sleeping bags - it makes it far more difficult for thieves to get to them.
Be careful when watching live performances keep an eye on your valuables as they are easier to take by pickpockets if you are distracted.

Police are also urging those attending to think about their own personal safety and for groups of friends to look out for each other when drinking and meeting new people.
Inspector Chris Lucas said; Latitude has a reputation as a fun family music festival and we want all those attending to enjoy themselves and not to have to worry about crime. However, sadly, there are a few who see this type of event as an opportunity to steal.
Experience from previous years shows people are targeted by criminals when their guard is down, so please don't give them the chance.
By taking a few simple precautions  particularly by not leaving your valuables unattended and putting them in your sleeping bag when you're asleep you can dramatically reduce the chance of having your weekend blighted by the upset and inconvenience of having your money, phone, iPod or camera stolen.
Please report any suspicious behaviour you may help stop fellow festivalgoers being targeted and help security or police catch the offenders.
Any incidents should be reported to the nearest security officer or the Campsite Assistance Team or just text LATITUDE and your message to 86688 (non emergencies only).


MAIL BOX ALERT 06/07/09

It has been reported to us that a mail box belonging to a Chediston resident has been broken into whilst the family were away from home.  It is strongly recommended that villagers check their boxes regularly and try to get a neighbour to empty their box if away for more than a day or so.  Please report to NHW and the police if you spot anyone acting suspiciously near a mailbox.  A general NHW phone alert has been carried out with regard to this matter.



NHW VISIT TO POLICE HQ AT MARTLESHAM 16/06/09

As your NHW Co-ordinator for Chediston, I attended a seminar at Police HQ to learn what the Police and the Safer Neighbourhood Team are achieving for us all. Some 70 NHW co-ordinators attended together with various police and Suffolk Coastal department personnel. The Police informed us that during 2008/9 there was a higher crime detection rate which can only be good news for us all. 

During the meeting there was an Interactive Voting exercise (rather like 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire' when they 'Ask The Audience'. We all had electronic voting gizmos and there were multiple choice questions to vote upon.  This threw up the results that people were concerned that the Police and Local authority do not seek the views of the public upon anti-social behaviour and crime issues - a pretty damning indictment in my opinion.  Other topics demonstrated that most people feel safe in their neighbourhoods and the level of crime etc in our areas is generally perceived (correctly) to be low.

One item was of interest in so far as when any new-build properties are proposed in a community, the Parish Council has an obligation to propose facilities for young people who will inevitably swell the total in that community.

A couple of police dogs and their handlers demonstrated how the dogs search for drugs and persons.  I can report that there were a few worried persons in the audience when the drugs dog arrived! This was really entertaining especially when one of the dogs took ages to find the pre-planted drugs! 

The SCDC Anti-Social Behaviour Co-ordinator (there is only one person dealing with the whole of SC) explained how the ASBO's are obtained and enforced. It is worrying that an ASBO can take 18 months due to the extent of diary and video/CCTV evidence required by law!  However ther is soem encouraging statistics that in or area, reoffending is low following SCDC's mediation or ASBOS.

For our parishes I have noted that the one item that is often raised at our PC Meetings is that of speeding on the B1123.  Apparently the Safer Neighbourhood Teams are assisted at Police HQ by many volunteers. One of the activities of this team is that of Community Speedwatch. Some parishes have taken advantage of this already and apparently Wenhaston and Walberswick have expressed an interest.  The volunteers will be supplied with radar guns and record sheets to record speeds over whatever period is desired.  The results of these are given to the SNT Police Officers who will then decide upon formal speed checks (with fines etc). This is something that I shall try to remember to raise with the PC at its next meeting.

There is a scheme in operation entitled Police Direct where any person can register their email address or home phone or mobile phone to receive free messaging from Suffolk Police. This service will provide the latest news about crime and policing in our area.  I reckon this is s very good idea as one will be informed of the type of crime in our vicinity of which we need to be aware; it will also inform about traffic jams etc.  I have signed up for this on behalf of this website and will be posting anything of interest.  If you like the idea and would like to receive your own direct messages write in to me using the Contact Us tab; I do have a few leaflets that will explain more.  I am a little annoyed that as we see the police presence so seldom in our villages, that my contact for NHW at Police HQ has not informed me about the Police Direct scheme at all. (Just today I had a message about a horse that had escaped, a description and asking for the public to be vigilant and report any sightings; I did not place this on this website because it escaped in Thetford and I doubted it would make it to Chediston & Linstead!). However the scheme seems a very good idea and is FREE!

David Mantell

NHW to South of Chediston Village

As previously reported Jim Webb was recruited by David Mantell to help organise the NHW Scheme to the South of the Village.  At last we can now report that all is fully in place.  This means that the whole of Chediston is now operating the NHW scheme.

If you would like any alerts emailed to you David can arrange this.  Just use the Contact facility on this website to provide your details.

BOGUS CALLERS ALERT (March 30 2009)

Locally things have changed for the worst, on
Friday  two young men in a blue pick up type truck with wire mesh round
the rear of the vehicle called at the door of a Framlingham resident and
passed them selves off as employees of a well known local garden
maintenance  company. With the residents authority they then cut the
hedge returning at the end of the job and made a demand of £280 - this
being more than £200 over  the true cost of the work, this was paid in
cash, the men said they would return with a receipt but didn't.
I cant emphasise enough the importance of checking people are who they
say they are and agreeing the charge for work before any work is carried
out. If in doubt say NO or at least phone the company they say they are
from to check.


Follow these top tips from Suffolk Police Crime Prevention experts to prevent Bogus Callers getting away with your valuables. If someone calls at your door: -

STOP
Think about whether or not you are expecting a call.
Before you answer the door make sure that your back door, or any other method of entry to your home, is locked.
Check who is calling by looking through the spy hole in your door or a nearby window.

CHAIN
If you have a door chain or bar, make sure that you use it and keep it on while you talk to the person on your doorstep.

CHECK
Make sure you check the details of your caller. Ask them to show you an identification card. This should include their name, a photograph and the name and number of the company they represent.
Check that the photograph matches that of the caller. If a letter has been sent to you to prearrange the visit then make sure the name and details on the card are the same as that in the letter. Whenever possible arrange such visits when you know that you will have someone with you.
If an appointment has not been made, take the ID card from the caller, close and lock the door and check the details by looking the company and number up in the phone book or call directory enquiries to check if the company is genuine.
Genuine callers will always carry photographic identification with them and will not mind waiting while you check it and confirm their identity.
Bogus callers can also turn up on your doorstep claiming to be builders or gardeners and may try and trick you into paying for unnecessary or overpriced work. Do not agree to have work done by someone who is just passing and never pay for any work before it is done. Don't believe scare stories, and don't let yourself be pressurized into a cash or quick sale.
Remember to note down the description of any unsolicited caller and if possible take down the colour, make and registration number of any vehicle they use as this information may help police to apprehend an offender.

If you have any concerns about the caller on your doorstep the message is simple. If in doubt, keep them out and call 999.

If you need any further information please contact your local police station or Crime Reduction Officer at Suffolk Police on 01473 613500.



TRESPASSING

Jo Wareham writes: 'Graeme and Pats shoot went up to the small wood at the top of my farm  this afternoon for the last drive and found a person helping  
themselves to logs. This in itself has long ceased to be a hanging  
offence, although I have paid someone to cut the wood, but the guns  
were mighty put out as all the birds had been disturbed. Is there any  
subtle way do you think of convincing people to keep out of private  
land, particularly where there is stock. People and their dogs in the  
field with cattle have been a bit of a worry this year too. I don't  
know if this a neighbourhood watch item or not.'

This is not the first time that similar events have taken place.  Most villagers do abide by footpath signs etc. but there appears to be an increasing minority who think that they can roam wherever they like.  Please do think twice where you stroll and if you have a dog please ensure that the dog is on a lead if it is near animals or birds.  Remember you would be upset if your dog is shot. 


BEWARE!!

On 19th November a black BMW convertible was parked in the lay-by at the corner
of Rockstone Farm/Cookley Grange. The driver and passenger (of Eastern
European extraction) flagged down a slow moving car and as one stood in the
middle of the road the other man asked the driver for money. They were
challenged by another member of the public who saw this incident and they
pleaded that they did not speak English and had no money - fortunately they
left empty handed.
It appears that a similar incident occurred several weeks prior to this date in
the same place.



CHRISTMAS MAIL SCAM

The following scam has been confirmed by the Royal Mail and Trading Standards:

A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel
Delivery Service) suggesting that they were unable to deliver a parcel
and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 (a premium rate
number). DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating
from Belize.

If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you
will already have been billed £15 for the phone call.

If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal
Mail Fraud on 02072396655 or ICSTIS (the premium rate service regulator)
at www.icstis.org.uk

HOME IMPROVEMENT CALLER NUISANCE - CHEDISTON OCTOBER 21

We have had a report of a persistent caller visiting homes in Chediston requesting the return of a form that was apparently circulated to households.  This guy, dressed in a jeans and a baseball cap (with apparently an ID around his neck) demands names and phone numbers.  We believe that we know the name of this company but please if you have had a visit or get one, inform us via this website or your NHW co-ordinator. We particularly want confirmation of the company name and phone number together with the name of the salesman.  It is suggested that you do not give any of your personal details to this salesman. We have informed the police and await confirmation whether the Police have had other reports.


CHEDISTON SCHOOLROOM BREAK-IN UPDATE OCTOBER 10

Further to the break-in at the Schoolroom (see initial report further down the page) we are now in a position to provide an update, kindly provided by our local policeman, Mark Bryant.
 
The police do have a suspect in mind but at present cannot find sufficient evidence.  Their enquiries are on-going.

Our original Report on this matter stated that we had requested from the Police an indication of the number of routine visits we can reasonably expect by the Police to our village.  Mark has checked his records and estimates that he has been to Chediston on routine patrol 30-40 times this year.  As he says, it is rare in a small village for residents to actually note that the police are passing through!  In order to reassure residents, Mark will now include in his patrols the track to the Church and also the car park - so residents close to the Church Track, do not be surprised if you see a Police car during the day or at night; this to demonstrate a reassuring Police presence.

Just to put matters into perspective - Chediston had only 3 police incidents in the last year and in the previous year there were none at all.  We are one of the safest villages in Suffolk.

If anyone has any queries or wishes us to put a question to the Police - use the 'Contact Us' tab.


POLICE WARNING TO RESIDENTS

Police are urging residents to be cautious after receiving three reports that older people had handed over large sums of money to men carrying out gardening work. Officers received three calls yesterday from concerned family members reporting that an older relative had been approached by men who carried out a small amount of gardening work and then asked for a large sum of cash in payment.
One incident occurred in Ufford on Monday 29 September where a number of men called at the home of a woman in her late 70s and started working in her garden. When they finished that day they asked for several thousand pounds for the work. The second incident occurred on Tuesday 30th September in Aldeburgh where a woman in her 80s paid several thousand pounds after men cut one tree in her garden and the third incident was yesterday, Wednesday 1st October, when three men turned up at an address in Leiston, carried out some basic work and then asked for an excessive amount for doing it.
Its thought the men involved in these incidents may have called at other properties in the area and police are asking anyone with information about who they are to call Suffolk Police on 01473 613500. Officers are also urging residents to be cautious when dealing with anyone going door to door offering to carry out work. If you need work carried out please get several quotes before agreeing to have it done. If someone is about to carry out work against your wishes, or if you are suspicious, please alert police immediately using 999.

OR

Please use the following link to pass any useful information to Suffolk Police about this incident.

http://www.suffolk.police.uk/News+And+Appeals/Report
+Information+To+The+Police/Tell+The+Police.htm

DO NOT USE THIS LINK IN AN EMERGENCY OR IN A SITUATION THAT REQUIRES AN IMMEDIATE POLICE RESPONSE WHEN YOU SHOULD RING 999.

CHEDISTON SCHOOLROOM BREAK-IN

The Schoolroom was burgled during the night 29/30 September. Police have visited and a Scenes of Crime Officer is expected today (30th) afternoon.  If you noticed anything suspicious during Monday evening or early Tuesday morning, please make that information known either by using the Contact Us tab or by telephoning our local policeman, Mark Bryant via Suffolk Constabulary - 01473-613500.

Following our NHW ring-around the following was reported and has been passed on to the police:

Jennifer (Paradise Farm) heard a car speed by around 5.00am this morning, for which she thought it most unusual, could be an early worker someone going on their hols, maybe something else.

Well done for reporting this - it may be significant.

We have now also written to the police as follows:

We shall report any response.




VILLAGE HOUSE PHOTOS

HOME PRODUCE STALLS - THEFTS

Here we go again at this time of the year!  We have been notified that produce and money are being stolen from stalls at the front of drives.  This is theft and we should all keep an eye out for anyone acting suspiciously. It is suggested that those with stalls check their tables etc regularly to remove any cash that may tempt those with dishonest tendencies. Contact Neighbourhood Watch using the link at the top of this page.


READ THIS IF YOU ARE LIKELY TO BE WALKING ALONE

The following was reported by one of our residents:

I had what could have been a fairly nasty experience on Saturday
and would like others alerted - esp women dogwalkers or lone runners. 
I was taking Tia (our dog) for a walk - a route I often take - over to
Wissett and then up towards Rumburgh and then back round to
Chediston Green - all road based.  When I was walking the bit after
the Rumburgh turn off towards the Chediston Green turning I was
passed by a black Renault - possibly a Clio - driven by a white male in
 his 30s - shaved (or very short hair) dark sunglasses.  He drove past
me and stopped.  I was aware he had done this and kept on walking.
He then turned around and began to follow me.  At this point I stopped
 and took out my mobile to call Ian to come and get me.  He saw me
doing this and reversed into a drive way and drove off.  This really
threw me as I have always walked the dog on my own and have always
felt safe.  Can you let others know please.  I did tell the police but as I
 didn't get the number they didn't have a lot to go on.


SECURING YOUR HOME/SHED/GARAGE/PLANTS ETC

Follow this link for advice on securing your home/outbuildings/plants etc.: http://secure.weebly.com


MAY 6 2008 - NHW ALERT!

We have taken a report of travelling fishmongers in the Shottisham area yesterday 24 April who persuaded an 80 year old pensioner couple to buy £1,000 worth of fish.

Having paid £100 there and then and given a cheque for £900 it was only after they had left that the couple realised they had been talked into buying fish that they neither need or want.

Many door-to-door traders are genuine and provide a valuable service however there are some who are prepared to take advantage of vulnerable or older people and persuade them to buy things that they may not want or need, sometimes at inflated prices.

Remember, you do not have to buy from doorstep salespeople. If you do not want their goods tell them that you are not interested and to leave your property.

If you do agree to buy goods make sure that you know what you have bought and, if you are concerned in any way just say no. Alternatively you may ask them to return when you will have someone else with you who can check on the transaction. It is unlikely that a trickster will risk returning.

This incident has been referred to Trading Standards

Sgt Bob Chapman,
Police Direct

APRIL 30 2008 - NHW ALERT!

A car window was smashed and a handbag stolen from the Chediston Schoolroom Car Park (April 30th).  Police have been informed but apparently were unable to attend! With this event and others recently reported we all need to be on our guard to protect our properties and belongings.

APRIL 4 - UPDATE

We received a telephone call from Mark Bryant our local policeman.  Apparently his son spotted the white Leyland van acting suspiciously at Sibton Common. Mark's wife called the police who went out and questioned the driver.  Suffice it to say the driver was warned that he was being carefully watched and that local communities are aware of his activities!  This is a good example of NHW getting something of a result! Thanks to Jonathan, Julia, Mark's son and Mark for keeping us updated.

APRIL 2 - NHW ALERT!

Following the reports in March about the white van, we had yet another today.  The driver (accompanied by two young children) went to Julia Morten at Hill Farmhouse, Chediston, then Jonathan Carman at Cookley Grange and then on to Valley Farm (that was burgled very recently).  Jonathan followed this van and passed on the
registration to the police.  The van was a white LDV Convoy S963FGU.  I have
spoken to the police and their Event No. is 150 2/4/08.  The police did follow this up and found that there was a discrepancy between the registered owner details and actual owner.I understand that the van may well be from a group of itinerants based in Diss; just where the Transit was based!! BEWARE AND REPORT ANYTHING SUSPICIOUS.  Well done Julia and Jonathan!  I will update this report if I get any further information form the Police.

MARCH 25 - NHW ALERT!

The following was reported to us by Julia Morten:

A burglary occurred a couple of days ago at Valley Farm, Cookley.  This involved a break-in through plate glass with a spade.  Several items were stolen.  According to the Police a similar burglary later took place near Southwold and Police consider that there is a very high risk of 3 or 4 others possibly in our area prior to the gang moving on to another area completely.  Take note and keep doors and gates locked.  Let's all be vigilant and report any suspicious movements!

MARCH 9 - NHW ALERT!

The following was reported to us by Joanna Wareham:

'I encountered a very inquisitive scrappy in my yard earlier, when he
saw me he asked about scrap metal but he was having a good nose about
before then'.

The vehicle used was a white Ford Transit Reg: W399AAR and it has also been encountered at Grange Farm, Chediston.  It may all be quite innocent but please be aware and if you see the vehicle in a suspicious place, let us know.  Thanks to Joanna's sharp eyes! Please all be vigilant as we do not want thefts in our village.  Report anything suspicious.  The Police have been informed and their very prompt response is:

'We are getting a lot of similar jobs due to the high price of scrap at the moment. The vehicle is registered to someone in Diss and has been seen at numerous locations doing the same thing.  The main thing is that they know they have been spotted and people should firmly say they are not interested and make an obvious show of taking the vehicle's number; this is usually enough to get rid of them.  if they are persistent or refuse to leave they should call us.'

POLICE COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICER'S RESPONSE 26/02/08
I emailed Mary Thompson, our PCSO, the response from Mark Bryant (see below) and her response is:

'I cannot disagree with anything Mark shared with you, outlined in your report, I also share Marks concerns about adequate staffing levels. I do however have some positives, we have a new PCSO joining Framlingham SNT at the beginning of April so I will no longer be the only Police Community Support Officer in the area. This should allow me to visit Chediston and other out lying villages on a regular basis, what would help is if you could let me know of any events that are held in the village that I might attend, in that way I can meet more people rather that just arriving one day and walking up and down the road. Coffee mornings, lunch groups things like that or if you are thinking of getting your NHW helpers together some time it would be an ideal opportunity to come and have a chat.
When you say "lack of protection" what is it you feel you need protecting from?
look forward to hearing from you, the web site looks great' 
 

I cannot disagree with anything Mark shared with you, outlined in your report, I also share Marks concerns about adequate staffing levels. I do however have some positives, we have a new PCSO joining Framlingham SNT at the beginning of April so I will no longer be the only Police Community Support Officer in the area. This should allow me to visit Chediston and other out lying villages on a regular basis, what would help is if you could let me know of any events that are held in the village that I might attend, in that way I can meet more people rather that just arriving one day and walking up and down the road. Coffee mornings, lunch groups things like that or if you are thinking of getting your NHW helpers together some time it would be an ideal opportunity to come and have a chat.
When you say "lack of protection" what is it you feel you need protecting from ?
look forward to hearing from you, the web site looks great
With regard to 'lack of protection' I confirmed that we need a regular police presence in order to deter potential criminal activities and having our houses 'cased'. I also suggested that she read our website to ascertain what events are happening in Chediston and Linstead.  In other words be more pro-active rather than having to be asked each time to an event!!
If any readers of this website have any comments or would like me to put specific questions to our PCSO, please do not hesitate to use the 'Contact Us' link on the website.
David Mantell


POLICE RESPONSE 24/02/08
I had a long meeting with Mark Bryant our Community Beat Policeman to discuss the 3 Alerts mentioned below and also to learn why we have to wait for a response from the Police.
Mark explained that the force is really stretched.  From 30 officers available some considerable time ago to our policing region (based in Framlingham), there are now only 17, and many of these are involved in Grade 1 and 2 matters, which basically means there is precious little time left for beat patrols to villages such as ours.  In fact I gather that Mark on may occasions has sole resopnsibilty for dozens of villages spread right across the region! I understand that this is just as frustrating to the police as it is to us all. This is why an instant response is not possible to all but serious crimes and why some matters just cannot be dealt with.
As regards the matters raised in our Alerts on this page below, Mark would obviously like more help which means us being more vigilant trying to obtain car registration numbers, better descriptions etc. Mark will try to increase his visits to Chediston and Linstead but I inferred that this is not terribly likely due to his workload.  Thus it is down to us to do as much as we can.  I did ask why a PCSO could not be assigned to our villages in order at least to show more of a presence but again I gather that staff shortages precludes this.  Mark has promised that in future he will respond to any emailed alerts that we pass to him at the very least to acknowledge that he has logged the problems.  Not terribly satisfactory but with inadequate funding and of course bureaucracy, paperwork etc. they cannot do their job as we the public would like so that we can all feel safe.

Mark has given me a number of very useful adhesive Police Notices that include Important Telephone Numbers, Security Aware stickers, Keep Locked Notices etc.  These are free.

If any readers of this website would like one of the stickers or have any comments or would like me to put specific questions to Mark, please do not hesitate to use the 'Contact Us' link on the website.
David Mantell





NHW ALERT
Well, we have had our first report of something suspicious.  13th December at 5pm - a report from one of our eagle-eyed villagers of an old white Peugeot 205 car stopping outside very many houses for a couple of minutes or so.  We do not have a registration number but matters were reported to the Police promptly and they made a sweep of the village.  If this vehicle is seen again, can someone contact one of the coordinators with the registration number. 

With the above alert, there is no need now for a trial run of the system.  Thanks to all working in my area of the village.  If you do live in my area of the village and by some chance you did NOT receive a message from one of my coordinators, please contact me urgently through this website. Police also warn us of several hawkers visiting nearby villages selling pictures etc.  Watch out!

ANOTHER NHW ALERT!
This and the above alert may be related.  Yesterday evening (17th December) a car was noted speeding out of William Ingate's drive and yard after doors were apparently hurriedly slammed.  This may have been innocent (as we have not been able to contact William) but we should all be aware and cautious. Again we do not have any details of the vehicle. The police have been informed.

FEB 18 - ANOTHER NHW ALERT!

Again this and the above alerts may be related. The following was reported to us by Stephen Burroughes:

 

'I am just alerting you regarding neighbourhood watch and Wendy's experience last week at and around William Ingate's. At about 6.00 pm, while feeding Jess's horse she heard movement around the farmyard near to William's main drive and called out 'who's there' but there was no reply. The person then ran off away from the Green, only to stop after a few yards, then run off again. They had no torch and could not be seen, but were obviously hiding close by. Wendy did not have a torch, so could not illuminate the person.

From the sounds the person made while running they had light footwear such as trainers, and possibly a lightweight synthetic coat which 'rustled' as they moved.

Also tracks have been seen in Margaret Bloomfield's front garden across the lawn upto the side of her bungalow, they may be bicycle tracks or something else. They were clearly visible in the grass. On a previous occasion she has experienced someone banging on her front window, and when answering the door the 'male' ran off. He was dressed in shirt sleeves'

Regrettably we have received no real feedback from the police on any of these issues and this matter will be raised at the next Parish Council Meeting when our police rep - Mark Bryant should be present.  When, or if, I receive any feedback from the police on any NHW issues these will be be published on this page.

Chediston Neighbourhood Watch Re-organisation Progress

My area of responsibility as Coordinator of the Scheme is from Town and Grove Farm, Leggetts Farm, all of Chediston Green down to the Post Box, along to Paradise Farm, and the houses around the Church with the exception of Shop Row.

To date I have my sub coordinators in place and have recently distributed to all of my residents a note giving the option of not wishing to be in the Scheme and of notifying me of any mistakes in the contact details that I hold. The time limit for a response to me was set at 7^th December and I have had one or two responses where the telephone numbers were incorrect.  Since then I have notified the sub-coordinators of the residents that they should contact in the event of a NHW message coming from me. Shortly I shall send a test message to confirm that the system is running as it should!

David Mantell


CRIMESTOPPERS NEWS

Crimestoppers have developed a website, aimed at teenagers,named 'SHADOWCS'.  It features games, music and avtars to manage. www.shadowcs.co.uk

This site will work on dial-up modems but is best viewed using broadband as it requires the latest version of flashplayer to work fully.Graham Downing has been very busy lately so those of you outside my village area will have to wait a while longer until he has time to arrange things.