November 2011
We have seen a massive interest and activity within Wiltshire Horsewatch since taking it county wide in 2009!
This month we see another exciting milestone, with the launch of our very own web site -
http://www.wiltshirehorsewatch.co.uk
We hope to keep the site fresh and informative, and would value any thoughts / feedback from you!
Tell your friends to complete the contact form for membership.
You will find numerous links, including our facebook and twitter pages!
The facebook page has about 735 people following, with many actively using the wall to gain advice or making others aware of suspicious incidents in their area.
Horsewatch - It’s about horse owners working in partnership with Police to help prevent and reduce equine/rural crime
Stay Safe
Winter time, clocks changing, means low light and the greater need to be SEEN!
Please wear Hi Viz clothing when riding!
I am constantly amazed, at how many riders are still putting themselves/equine friend and others in danger when riding on our busy roads!
It could save injury and heartache
Rant over......
Tack Stamping
This is a free service
Donations go to “Wilts Air Ambulance” and “Greatwood”
We can arrange to visit your yard!
You can view where future security stamping events/locations are on facebook ‘events’ page or access the info from
http://www.wiltshirehorsewatch.co.uk/events.htm!
Saddle Stamping / Crime Prevention Advice
VIGILANCE
The ease of access to most farms, stables and livery yards, makes total security impossible - but there’s a lot that you can do to reduce the risks…
And it doesn’t all involve extra expense!
Horsewatch / Farmwatch
Schemes encourage everyone in the rural community to be vigilant and to report anything suspicious to the police.
Noting details of strange vehicles or persons near to stables, fields or farm buildings is vital.
You should be suspicious of any unexpected visitors! The main aims are to:
• Reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism.
• Strengthen community spirit so that everyone can play a part in protecting their property.
• Improve two-way communication between individuals, equine establishments, farmers, and the police.
• Reduce the fear of crime.
Horse Watch Signs
Security signs are available on request!
A donation of £5 would be gratefully received for each sign, which covers production/printing costs and enables us to re-order when necessary!
Signs are A4 size
Made of durable “Foamex”
Endorsed by BHS
Some Good News
December 2010 - Theft of a Black Ifor Williams 505 trailer from the Brinkworth Swindon area!
The owner spotted the trailer on an internet site for sale, and arranged to view for confirmation! Glos Police seized the trailer two weeks ago and returned it to one happy owner!
NOTE: Owner had recorded serial numbers and made further ID marks, (post code) which were then photographed!
Theft of Flatbed Trailer and Red Diesel
Offenders had broken into a large barn and removed a trailer! Red diesel siphoned into a container and placed onto trailer! JCB broken into and damaged!
Following day I took a call from a scheme member who had found the stolen trailer and diesel on his land!
We collected and returned to owner!
Tack Room Theft
Sadly, a yard in the Marlborough area recently sustained a substantial loss of saddles and bridle ware! Following this theft, owners took advice from the Rural Crime Team and security hardened all areas!
This included fitting alarm systems, lighting and signage!
NOTE: Security measures proved invaluable, as another attempt was made on the yard but the newly fitted alarm did its job and offenders left empty handed
Rural Crime Team
PC Tony Miles (Wootton Bassett), ext: 730819 Mobile: 07817 689640
PC Mark Randle (Amesbury), ext: 724515 Mobile: 07952 989999
PCSO John Bordiss (Marlborough), ext: 739817 Mobile: 07968 942116
Team email:
ruralcrimeteam@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk
Civilian HW Co-coordinator (Westbury based): Tracy Barthram, e:
tbarthram@hotmail.com , t: 07980 502087
Together we can fight rural crime