garden security blog

Callous thieves target Somerset church's garden of remembrance

2012-01-27T06:15:00.000-08:00

Callous thieves have left mourners heartbroken after targeting a church garden of remembrance in Westfield.

Shocked churchwarden Pat Belben contacted police after noticing the large "Garden of Rest" sign outside St Peter's Church had been stolen.

Mr Belben, who has been a warden at the church for more than 10 years, was deeply saddened by the theft.

The metal sign is about 2ft by 1ft in black with gold lettering.
He said it is of huge importance to people who come to the garden to remember loved ones because it creates a sense of familiarity and added that the incident has left families worried that graves may be targeted next.
Mr Belben added: "I can't believe someone would steal a sign for a remembrance garden. It is very important to people who come here because it is part of the garden.
"The sign may make whoever stole it a few quid, but the theft could cost us a couple of hundred pounds to replace."
Fellow warden Lynne Waton shared Mr Belben's anger and dismay.
She said: "It is terrible that someone would take the sign simply for their own gain. This should be a sacred place where people can come for a moment to pay their respects, pray or to remember loved ones."
Mr Belben appealed to anyone with information about the sign to call the police.
Sergeant Geoff Cannon, from Radstock police, said officers at the station were upset and angry that someone could steal the sign.
He said: "Rather than choose a piece of utility equipment to steal, thieves that clearly have no conscience have taken something on this occasion that is precious to the local community and that will be sorely missed."
Sgt Cannon said he thinks someone will know where the sign has gone and appealed to anyone with information to call the police.
He added: "This is not something that can be disposed of easily. Someone knows where it is."
Sgt Cannon also urged people to remain vigilant, especially those who live near churches.
In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in metal thefts across the country which has seen thieves targeting war memorials, railway lines, street signs and manhole covers.
In September the theft of seven manhole covers from around the Timsbury area cost Bath and North East Somerset Council thousands of pounds.
Anyone with information re the theft of the sign should call Avon and Somerset police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from This Is Somerset, 27th Jan)

Gardien Comment: Metal theft continues to be a major problem although the government are trying to introduce measures to curb it. Thought should be given to the protection of all outdoor metal items - see the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/outdoor-items-security.aspx

Pupils at Holy Family Pre-School heartbroken by garden materials theft

2012-01-27T05:09:00.000-08:00

CHILDREN have been left upset after thieves stole material they were going to use to build their garden.
Youngsters from Holy Family Pre-School in Millbrook, Southampton, were excited about building raised flower beds and vegetable patches.
Parents have been fundraising and Totton Timber donated 12 planks of pine for the project which was to start next week.
Pre-school manger Sharon Kefby said: “It is so sad and disheartening. They are stealing from the children, they have taken away an experience from them. We are a charity and we can’t afford to replace these things.”
This is the second time they have been targeted. In September donated bamboo fencing was stolen.
Anyone with information about the incident should call Hampshire police on 101

(Reproduced from Southern Daily Echo, 27th Jan 2012)

Gardien Comment: Property Marking the wood with SelectaDNA would at least enable identification back to the school. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Criminals targeting bikes in Lincoln, police say

2012-01-26T01:33:00.000-08:00

Police are urging Lincoln residents to consider improving their shed security after an increase in break-ins to steal bikes.
The warning comes after another incident in the city, when thieves broke into a shed in a garden in Dixon Street overnight on January 23 and stole a mountain bike.
Officers say there is an ongoing crime series across the city and criminals seem to be particularly focussing on the theft of bikes.
Residents are advised to consider keeping valuable bikes inside their homes, or to at least increase their shed security with better locks and shed alarms.
Police are appealing for anyone to report any suspicious activity in their roads as soon as possible.
Call Lincolnshire Police with information on 101, or call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0800 555 111 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

(Reproduced from The Lincolnite, 20th January)

Gardien Comment: See the article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Sick grave robbers steal grieving family's Christmas decorations

2012-01-20T04:20:00.000-08:00

A DUNFERMLINE family who put up a special Christmas tree in memory of their youngest son were left heartbroken after the decorations were stolen by callous thieves.
Val and Steve Murphy, of Bruce Gardens, were sickened by the "disgusting" theft of the trinkets, which were taken from son Ian's graveside in Douglas Bank Cemetery, Pattiesmuir.

Christmas lights, tinsel and one of five wreaths, which had also been decorated with special items, were also stolen.

Ian, a Fife Council sports coach, was just 22 when he lost his brave fight against cancer in August 2008 and his family have put up a tree over the Christmas period for the last four years as a memorial and tribute.

Each tree is decorated by family and friends and then gifted to a family member for replanting and decorating annually in their own garden.

The Murphys had placed the latest tree around 11th December and discovered the theft on 14th January, barely a week after their last visit.

Mum Val (52) said, "I was just shocked at the time but when I got home it was quite emotional.

"This is our way to involve Ian and a special way of keeping his spirit of Christmas alive.

"The tree was left in good condition as were the four other wreaths, leaving us to believe that the items had been very carefully and deliberately removed.

"There were lots of things that were still there and had not been touched.

"Had this happened before Christmas I would have thought they had been taken for their own tree but why now?"

Val also questioned why anyone would take the decorations, as they were specific to Ian.

She said, "There was a crystal robin, a Liverpool ball, items that said 'To a special son' or brother and there were messages attached to them.

"It's horrible - you know there's a risk attached to putting things out but this doesn't make it right.

"This has been a very upsetting experience and it beggars belief as to why some selfish, despicable human being would do this to us."

She said Ian had been the family's "Mr Christmas", adding, "He was the life and soul and would do Santa - he'd take his Nana round and deliver the presents to all the families.

"If someone could find it in their heart to return the decorations it would be wonderful."

Fife Council bereavement services manager Liz Murphy said all its cemeteries were public access but said such thefts were not an issue they had faced in recent years.

She added, "My advice is for people to be very careful with what personal and sentimental items they put out at gravesides.

"It's terrible that someone would do something like that. It's a rural site as well and you don't really expect that to happen."

(Reproduced from the Dunfermline Press, 20th Jan)

Gardien Comment: It should not be necessary to protect items left by graves, but sadly literally nothing is now sacred. If anything is of real value, the use of something like SelectaDNA would at least identify the item back to the owner if it were subsequently found. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectamarkhomeDNA50.aspx

Warning after metal theft

2012-01-14T04:15:00.000-08:00

A WARNING had been issued after a metal theft in Hempsted.

Officers in Hempsted are warning residents to be on the lookout for metal thefts after a suspicious incident earlier this week.
Unknown offenders removed a set of ladders from a garden on Hempsted Lane at around 4.30pm on Tuesday, January 10. They then climbed over a fence with the ladders into another garden because, it is believed, they were planning to return to steal lead from a roof.
PC Mark Evans, who is sending letters to the community to warn them, said: "As you will be aware, the nights are getting lighter, so this will be an opportunity for thieves to use this to their advantage and steal as much as possible.
"Please secure anything that could be used to gain entry into houses or assist with the theft of lead - by keeping ladders locked up and moving items such as wheelie bins/steps away from easy access points.
"Should you see anyone acting suspiciously hanging about properties; be it on foot or in a vehicle after dark, or someone looking into gardens please gather as much information as possible - namely descriptions and vehicle registrations and then report this using the new Gloucestershire Police
non-emergency number 101.
"However, if there is a risk to yourself, your property from anyone, or you think that your safety or others is endangered, please ring 999 and do not approach the person."
For details visit www.gloucestershire.police.uk

(Reproduced from This is Gloucestershire, 13th Jan 2012)

Gardien Comment: The metal theft epidemic continues and everyone should take precautions where possible. Make use of the free advice at www.garden-security.co.uk

Garden gnomes stolen by thieves

2012-01-11T05:15:00.000-08:00

TWO gnomes were stolen from a garden in South Tyneside.
The ornaments were among several items taken when thieves broke into the back garden of a home in Epinay Walk in Jarrow.
A stone Shihtzu dog, a metal bird bath and a toadstool were also taken in the raid, between 3pm on Friday and 9.30am on Saturday.
Anyone with information about the theft, or the whereabouts of the stolen items, is asked to contact police on 101 ext 69191 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 .
Crime prevention officers said residents should shut off their gardens to thieves by using locks, bolts or a padlock and chain on all back and side gates.
They also said prickly plants should be used to deter raiders, and photographs should be taken of garden furniture and items security marked where possible.

(Reproduced from The Shields Gazette, 11th Jan)

Gardien Comment: All the advice and products you need are at www.garden-security.co.uk

Christmas theft upset

2012-01-04T05:53:00.000-08:00

An Exmouth pensioner had garden furniture stolen while she was in hospital, the police have said.
‘Stealing from the vulnerable is about as low as anyone can get’ – that is the message from the daughter of a hospitalised elderly woman who was targeted by thieves shortly before Christmas.
Exmouth police said the Brixington pensioner’s cast iron garden furniture was stolen from her sheltered accommodation in Churchill Roa, while the elderly woman was in hospital, between December 14 and 21.

The victim’s daughter this week hit out at the thieves, writing an open letter to the culprits who targeted her mother.
The letter said: “Here’s hoping you had a lovely Christmas and your New Year is equally as comfortable while you sit on my poorly old mum’s beautiful, six-month-old cast iron garden furniture, which you recently acquired from the private back garden of her warden-controlled council bungalow.
“She was blissfully unaware and for this fact we are truly grateful, as goodness knows what would have happened had she confronted you!
“I hope that you are able to live with your conscience as most like-minded people would agree that stealing from the vulnerable is about as low as one can get.”
Police are keen to trace the grey cast iron table, with ‘pretty’ mosaic tiled top, and two chairs.
If you can help, contact PCSO Ball on 101, quoting crime reference number KE/11/3310.

(Reproduced from the Exmouth Journal, 4th Jan 2012)
Gardien Comment: Metal items left outside are highly vulnerable at the moment so do whatever you can to protect them. See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/outdoor-items-security.aspx

Heartless thieves steal sundial in Streatham Common

2011-12-30T04:08:00.000-08:00

Metal thieves have struck again in a community park – this time targeting a much loved sundial. The dial, which was located in the Rookery on Streatham Common, was detached from its stone base during the Christmas holidays and stolen.
Streatham resident Philip Sidaway, of nearby Valley Road, was walking through the park when he noticed it had been taken.
He said: “I’m disgusted but not surprised given all the other metal theft around. The top of the plinth it stood on appears to show signs of it being chiselled off.”
Kasia Brookes, committee secretary for the Streatham Common Community Garden, said the theft was “a very selfish act” but reflected the tough economic times.
She said: “I think it's a great shame, as I remember the sundial from my childhood - it's been there for years and years.
“I'm sure it means something to quite a lot of people. It is a very selfish act, but it also shows how desperate people are getting at the moment.”
A council spokesman said it would cost between £300 and £400 to replace the stolen dial.
He said: “The Rookery sundial is an important attraction for residents and visitors who come to enjoy Streatham Common and its theft is devastating.
“We will do everything in our power to assist the police in investigating this matter which sadly appears to be the latest incident of public art and metal theft to occur in a south London borough.”
In October, thieves stole two imitation bronze inscription plates from the Civilian War Memorial in the Lambeth Cemetery in Blackshaw Road, while a grade-II listed bronze relief plaque at West Norwood Cemetery commemorating the Victorian building magnate Benjamin Colls was desecrated as thieves attempted to steal it and sell it for cash.
Nearby West Norwood Library has been closed until further notice after copper was stolen from the roof.
As the price of scrap metal continues to spiral, police estimate that metal theft across the UK is costing the economy £1 billion a year.
Lambeth Council Leader Steve Reed has called on the Government to help tackle the problem.
“We need the Government to act fast to put these lowlife criminals out of business,” he said

(Reproduced from Local Guardian, Streatham 30th Dec 2011)

Gardien Comment: Don't make it easy for opportunist thieves in your area. Check out what metal items you have around your house and garden, lock them away wherever possible, and fit security devices to lessen the chance of theft. See www.garden-security.co.uk for advice and solutions

Bench theft a blow for Doncaster East church

2011-12-21T05:51:00.000-08:00

A HEARTLESS theft from a memorial garden housing the ashes of late parishioners at the Doncaster East Baptist Church has left the community reeling.

Two weeks ago, thieves made off with two large wooden bench seats from the church’s Memorial Peace Garden.
The benches had been donated by two local women in memory of their late husbands whose ashes were interred in the garden.
Associate pastor Hal Grix said the theft had disturbed the congregation and wider community.
“It was a place for everyone to find peace and quiet so to think people targeted it is very distressing,” he said.
“It’s very sad for us that a final resting place has been disrupted.”
Mr Grix said the church had been robbed several times in the past two years.
“We’ve had a couple of break-ins and money has been stolen and property damaged,” he said.
“I’m baffled by people attacking churches because we don’t have much here.”
Mr Grix said the benches would be replaced as soon as possible but would lack the sentimental value.
Doncaster police Sen-Constable Di Davidson said she had door-knocked and letterbox-dropped the area for information to no avail.
“We’ve canvassed the neighbourhood but nobody appears to know anything,” she said.
“It’s a horrible thing to happen.”
The seats were chained down and extremely heavy so Sen-Constable Davidson said bolt cutters and a vehicle must have been involved.
Anybody with information is urged to call Doncaster Police on 8841 3999.

(Reproduced from The Manningham Leader, 21st Dec 2011)

Gardien Comment: Nothing has any meaning to thieves and so absolutley nothing is safe from attack. Never assume that anything is too heavy or awkward to be moved - see the security advice at www.garden-security.co.uk

Christmas trees theft 'a disaster' for Surrey nursery

2011-12-15T05:43:00.000-08:00

A FAMILY-RUN garden nursery in Thorpe has been left devastated after thousands of pounds of Christmas trees were plundered by thieves last week.

John Braggins, owner of the Mayflower Nursery in Thorpe Lea Road, said the thieves used a back access to the garden centre to break in and make off with 100 of their 120 trees.
The nursery, which closed last spring and reopened under Mr Braggins’ ownership in September, was already proving popular.
Run with the help of his family, Mr Braggins had always planned to sell the festive firs during the advent period, but now has been left depleted of Christmas stock and Christmas spirit.
“As a family it has been disastrous," he said, adding: “We have still got quite a lot of work to do here before next spring.
“We’re trying not to let it affect our Christmas, but that money is not in our pockets now.
He added: “It affects us deeply, because the profit from selling the trees was to be used to buy shrubs for the nursery in spring, that was the idea anyway.
“It’s a big hit, a big hit. We have had no loans from the bank, so I have had to replenish the stock myself, paying cash. We’re never going to recuperate that.
“To have someone walk in and steal from you like that, it’s just soul-destroying.”
The theft took place at some point between 4pm on Monday, December 5 and 10am on Tuesday, December 6.
The thieves cut through the canvas cover on an outbuilding at the site and stole the British pine trees, which ranged in height from 5ft to 9ft tall.
Egham neighbourhood sergeant Iain Weaving said patrols would be stepped up around sites selling Christmas trees.
He added: “Crimes can be seasonal and this is a seasonal crime, where people are looking to seize stock that they can sell on.
"I’m sure that these thieves do other things at other times of the year, and are probably the same people that target lawnmowers and leaf-blowers in the summer.”
Mr Braggins said they had now increased security at the nursery, adding lighting and blocking the back access gate.
Anyone with any information about the burglary should contact Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference RM/11/7160, or call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from getsurrey.co.uk Dec 15th)

Gardien Comment: As so often happens, security has been improved as a result of the theft, but by then the damage had been done. Security needs to be reviewed on a regular basis and weaknesses addressed. For general advice on security of gardens and outdoor items visit www.garden-security.co.uk

Wallington 'elf-nappers' hunted over garden centre theft

2011-12-15T05:36:00.000-08:00

Three women, one in a wheelchair, have been spotted stealing an electric elf from a garden centre in south London. The suspects stole 2ft-high Chippy from Woodcote Green Garden Centre in Wallington on 6 December.
Chippy, a pink-faced elf, used to wave at visitors to the nursery before it was taken, leaving bosses "shocked" by the behaviour.
The women were caught on CCTV unplugging Chippy before leaving after the incident.
They were accompanied by a young child.
Phil Barnden, manager of the garden centre, said: "I was particularly shocked that someone could stoop so low. We want him back.
"The most disappointing thing is he is not there to wave at all the little children coming in.
"We have now got an empty plinth where Chippy used to sit next to his mate Rusty."
Mr Barnden said it cost about £1,000 to hire the two elves.
He said collections during the Christmas festivities raise money for charities including Help the Heroes.
Mr Barnden added: "We want to try and get him back. The kids are missing him."
Police hope anyone who saw the thieves will get in touch.
One of the suspect is aged 25 to 30, about 5ft 6in tall, with long black hair and a ponytail wearing a black tracksuit.
The wheelchair-user was being pushed by a teenager in a stripy black and white T-shirt.

(Reproduced from BBC News Online 15th Dec)

Gardien Comment: An "elf and safety" issue? Another example of how nothing can be considered safe from theft during the run-up to Christmas. Don't leave it too late - take precautions before you become a victim, not after.

Warning over fuel oil thefts in East Anglia

2011-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

Rural homes and businesses were urged to protect valuable supplies of heating oil after insurers reported a substantial rise in theft claims across the region.Rising fuel prices have made heating oil an attractive target for thieves, with some tanks capable of holding stocks worth thousands of pounds.
Insurance firm NFU Mutual said the number of claims for oil theft doubled in the first six months of this year – with the East of England the worst-hit region.
Norfolk Constabulary’s figures show that although there was a 35pc rise in reported thefts during the first six months of this year, the figures evened out by the end of 2011, with 187 reports so far compared to 186 in 2010.
In Suffolk, the upward regional trend was more pronounced, with 115 reported incidents until December 4 this year, compared to 93 throughout the same period in 2010.
Officers in Norfolk credited the county’s relatively stable figures to an ongoing public awareness campaign – but warned that vigilance was still needed to safeguard valuable fuel oil during the winter.
Det Sgt Pete Jessop, from Norfolk police’s Operation Radar team said: “You wouldn’t leave a bucket with £50 notes in your back garden, but effectively that’s what people are doing if they don’t protect their fuel tanks.
“We are reminding people there are precautions they can take against thefts. They can reinforce it, disguise it, put lights on it – but they have to protect it because everyone is a potential victim.
“In particular, businesses and schools which are closed over the Christmas period need to make sure they are aware of what they have got in their tanks.”
NFU Mutual’s report says the cost of dealing with fuel thefts had also soared, partly due to the expense of cleaning up soil and groundwater contamination leaking from oil tanks damaged by thieves.
The police’s crime prevention advice includes:
Check oil levels frequently, and consider an electronic gauge which sets off an alarm if the oil level suddenly drops.
Fit a good quality locking device to secure all fuel tanks.
Consider perimeter security for the whole tank, such as a metal cage, fencing or even a prickly hedge.
Position your oil tank to allow maximum view from your property – this may discourage passing thieves.
Consider dusk to dawn lighting around the tank so you can see and anyone can be seen.
The most recent reported heating oil theft in Norfolk was on November 30, when 300 litres were stolen from a garden tank on Hillside at East Barsham, near Fakenham.
Officers asked anyone who saw any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area between 10.30am and 5.30pm to contact Fakenham Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

(Reproduced from Eastern Daily Press, 14th Dec)

Gardien Comment: There are some simple, effective solutions such as the Combined Padlock and Alarm ( http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-alarm-padlock.aspx ) or the Garden Laser Tripwire ( http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-laser-tripwire.aspx ). If mains power is available fairly close to the Fuel Tank, then Guardcam provides a comprehensive solution which will record the attempted theft and can produce an audible warning to scare off unwanted visitors ( http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-floodlight-PIR-camera-video.aspx )

Britain is in the grip of an austerity crime-wave with two thirds rise in burglaries in parts of the country

2011-12-12T04:06:00.000-08:00

Britain has been hit by an ‘austerity crimewave’, with burglary and robbery both on the rise, experts said last night. Police figures reveal there were 9 per cent more burglaries in October this year than in December 2010. Around three quarters of forces in England and Wales saw a rise in burglary numbers when the two months were compared. Feeling the pinch: Among the worst figures nationwide were a 66 per cent rise in burglaries in Devon and Cornwall and a 55 per cent rise in Cleveland
Over the same period robberies were up by 4.5 per cent.
The figures were collated by the Economic Policy Centre from the police.uk website, which compiles data from individual constabularies.
Among the worst figures nationwide were a 66 per cent rise in burglaries in Devon and Cornwall and a 55 per cent rise in Cleveland.
Robberies were up 23 per cent in Surrey and 22.7 per cent in Cleveland.
Last week Metropolitan Police Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe told a committee of the London assembly: ‘We’ve got a challenge at the moment around robbery, particularly street robbery.’
In the year to October muggings in the capital were up nearly 15 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Several parts of London saw increases of nearly one third in robberies in the 12 months to October. In Lewisham, south east London the rise was 30.4per cent.
Ministers have insisted chief constables can protect front line police services despite cuts of a fifth in force budgets.
But Labour and police representatives say the loss of an estimated 16,000 officers can only undermine crime-fighting.
In June, Justice Secretary Ken Clarke admitted robbery was rising ‘rather alarmingly’.
Official crime statistics have shown marked rises in knifepoint robberies, bicycle thefts and pickpocketing.
Data for the year to June showed there were 14,980 knifepoint robberies – up seven per cent compared to the 13,994 a year earlier.
Police have also warned of rising thefts of iPhone and other expensive mobile handsets which criminals sell on the black market abroad for twice their value in the UK.
Rising thefts from garden sheds, yards and garages - which were up 13 per cent last year - are thought to be linked to easy sales of garden equipment in car boot sales.
Criminologist Professor Marian FitzGerald said: ‘People are feeling the pinch with the loss of jobs and benefit cuts. 'Yet people want to maintain their levels of consumption, so they hunt for bargains.
‘This increases the demand for stolen goods’.
Jon Murphy, of the Association of Chief Police Officers said: ‘In particular the economic situation has driven some crimes, such as metal theft,’ he said.
‘We are prepared for challenging times ahead, but remain accountable to our mission to keep people safe from harm.’

(Reproduced from Mail Online, 12th Dec 2011 - The full article can be found at : http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2072841/Britain-grip-austerity-crime-wave-rise-thirds-burglaries-parts-country.html#ixzz1gJwpCh8a)

Gardien Comment: Take heed - don't be a victim. Look for the advice and products at www.garden-security.co.uk

Metal theft doubles in a year

2011-12-11T02:20:00.000-08:00

THE POLICE are warning the public about metal thefts being on the increase.

Last week a property on the Saintfield Road, Lisburn was broken into and an amount of copper piping was stolen.
In August, 20 manhole covers worth £2,000 were stolen from the grounds of the Sally Garden Centre in Poleglass.
Thieves also target schools with 20 schools in Northern Ireland having lead stolen from their roofs, followed by building sites, churches, farms and shops.According to police statistics there has been a significant rise in metal thefts, with the PSNI recording 158 lead thefts in 2010/11, compared to 74 in 2009/10. In 2005 there were just 52 cases. Thieves pocketed £53,485 from stolen lead in the last year alone, despite 46 of the reported metal hauls recorded as having no estimated value.
That equates to £477.54 per load of lead they were able to sell.
The vast majority of recorded cases of theft comes from homes. Of the 158 cases, 49 were stolen from a dwelling.
Police would advice the public to:
• Remove or delay fitting metal such as copper tanks and copper pipes if a house is going to be empty.
• Mark metal with tamper-proof stickers, UV spray or grease.
• Use signs on vacant properties warning metal has been marked or removed. Consider using anti-climb paint, however you may have to display signage.
• Artificial lead (which is lower in resale value) is a good replacement in the event of a theft.

(Reproduced from The Ulster Star, 8th Dec 2011)

Gardien Comment: Use DNA Grease to mark property so that items can be traced back to their source - see http://www.garden-security.co.uk/selectaDNA-grease.aspx

Shotgun cartridges theft at clay shooting ground

2011-12-11T02:12:00.000-08:00

SHOTGUN ammunition was stolen during a break-in at a clay pigeon shooting range in Lutterworth.

The theft happened between 5pm on Sunday, November 13, and 6.50am the following day, at the Spa Vale Shooting Ground off Coventry Road on the outskirts of the town.
A number of ISO containers in some fields were broken into and a large quantity of 12 and 20-bore shotgun cartridges were stolen from the safe.
Garden tools, batteries and a quad bike were also stolen.
PC Sarah Clarke said: “We have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the incident was reported to us and are now asking the public to contact us if they have any information about the incident or the stolen items.
“If anyone saw any suspicious activity in or around the range on the A4303 between the times of the incident I would urge them to contact the police. Any descriptions of vehicles or people seen in the area at the time could assist with our enquiries.”
Anyone with information can phone PC Clarke on 101, using ID number 4713 when prompted. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, which is free and anonymous, on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from the Lutterworth Mail, 11th Dec 2011)

Gardien Comment: We can make no comment on the general theft but certainly the Quad Bike should be firmly fastened to either floor or wall and also Property Marked. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Man caught red-handed in crackdown on metal thefts

2011-12-11T01:54:00.000-08:00

POLICE chiefs say a new crackdown on metal thefts in Bolton is paying dividends, after an alleged thief was caught red-handed. Police launched Operation Alloy to combat the growing problem of metal thefts and stop thieves from lining their pockets by selling on stolen metal.
The team was called to Nandywell, Little Lever, shortly before 1am on Wednesday when a neighbour saw a disturbance in the garden of a nearby property.
Police were quickly at the scene and a 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft, with officers also recovering metal that was suspected stolen.
He has been bailed until December 14.
Sgt Graeme Murrie, from the Operation Alloy team, said: “With Christmas coming up, and the nights drawing in much earlier, unfortunately there are thieves about who have no qualms about ripping the lead off roofs or raiding sheds just to get their hands on a bit of metal they can cash in.
“Anyone who has been a victim of this sort of Crime will understand just how frustrating it is. Stealing the lead from a roof leaves the home vulnerable to the weather, insecure and the homeowners are left with a feeling their home and their privacy has been invaded.
“This arrest shows just how much of a priority Greater Manchester Police takes metal theft and the quick response of the division meant not only were we able to catch this thief red- handed, but we also stopped them from making off with the metal and profiting from their cowardly and opportunistic actions.
“Thanks to Operation Alloy, we are continuing to make arrests, reducing the amount of metal stolen and bringing offenders to justice. Gradually the message needs to sink in to these criminals: if you want to steal metal, be prepared for the metal of police handcuffs.”
Operation Alloy involves specialist operations and neighbourhood policing officers being supported by engineers from telecoms, electricity, water and transport networks to recover metals thought to have been stolen from their networks and arrest anyone suspected of being involved.
Anyone targeted by metal thieves should call 101 or 999 in an emergency, or the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from Bolton News 11th December)

Gardien Comment: Don't attract trouble - hide away outdoor metal items wherever possible but property mark them if they are too big or awkward to be stored in a shed or garage. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/outdoor-items-security.aspx and http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Christmas tree theft warning from police

2011-12-07T11:26:00.000-08:00

POLICE are hunting a gang who stole Christmas trees worth more than £5,000 – amid fears that it could be the start of a seasonal crimewave. Garden centres are being put on alert after thieves targeted two premises, escaping with almost 150 trees.
Police believe that the same gang is behind the thefts of 100 trees, worth £4,000, at a nursery in Titchfield and another in Wickham, where a further 49 trees were taken, valued at £1,800. Now they are warning other garden centres to be on their guard.
The gang of four broke into the Silver Springs Nursery and Garden Centre in Fontley Road, Titchfield, by cutting a fence.
They wrapped some of the spruces in netting before escaping in what officers believe were multiple vehicles.
During the raid the thieves also damaged three vehicles and took a trailer valued at £1,000 and a CR85 Honda motocross bike worth £1,000.
Officers are appealing for information about the incident, which happened between 3.50am and 4.50am on Tuesday.
The same night the gang then got into the car park of nearby Park Place Farm Nursery, in Titchfield Lane, by cutting the padlock before taking 49 trees.
Investigating officer PC Sarah Hall said that the trees would probably be sold in lay-bys or fields.
Call PC Hall on 101, or for those out of the area, call 0845 045 4545

(Reproduced from Southern Daily Echo, 1st Dec)

Gardien Comment: Christmas trees are just one of the targets at this time of year. Presents can often be stored in sheds or garages away from children's prying eyes so check out the security - the temptation to some is too great. See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Warning over shed bike thefts

2011-12-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

POLICE are urging cyclists to be extra careful if they store their bike in a garden shed.

The warning follows recent thefts in Fishponds, where sheds without sturdy locks have been particularly targeted and bikes have been taken.
Inspector Graham Fox said: "We are currently investigating several incidents of theft of bikes in our area. We want to make people aware and urge them to think carefully about whether the security on their sheds and garages is adequate enough to deter thieves.
"Is your bike locked out of sight or can it be seen by passers-by? Does your shed or garage have a lock and is the lock strong enough? Is the bike locked up inside the shed or garage?
"During the last six months we have fitted ground anchors for victims of moped and high-value cycle thefts in the Hillfields and Fishponds areas, but they can be purchased from cycle and hardware shops and are worth the investment."
He urged people to register bikes on the Immobilise.com property register

(Reproduced from Bristol Evening Post Dec 2nd 2011)

Gardien Comment: See the article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Gardening thefts: man charged

2011-11-30T05:19:00.000-08:00

A MAN has been charged with a series of garden and allotment thefts after tools and equipment were recovered in Scarborough.

The find came after investigations into the recent spate of thefts from allotments in Bridlington, Pocklington, Goole and Hedon.
Officers from Humberside Police have charged a 48-year-old man who will be appearing at Bridlington Magistrates’ Court in early December to face more than 20 burglary and theft charges.
Detective Constable Jeff Hall, from Goole CID, said: “It is a really nice feeling when we can reunite property with its rightful owners and especially when we have charged a man to court.”

(Reproduced from Scarborough Evening News, 30th Nov)

Gardien Comment: It makes the police job of returning items so much easier if they have been property marked - see http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx. To lessen your chance of becoming a victim, see the general advice at www.garden-security.co.uk

Metal theft doubles in one year as robbers target homes

2011-11-24T05:15:00.000-08:00

Incidents of metal theft have more than doubled in one year alone, with homeowners bearing the brunt of the crime wave.

In a stagnant economy the scrap metal business is booming, as demand for resources from emerging nations like India, China and Brazil has driven up prices.
It has become an attractive commodity for criminals in these tough times, with lead, copper and aluminium among the most popular targets.
Latest figures show a significant rise in metal thefts, with the PSNI recording 158 lead thefts in 2010/11, compared to 74 in 2009/10.
It’s a big jump from the 52 cases which were reported in 2005.
The police statistics show thieves pocketed £53,485 from stolen lead in the last year alone, despite 46 of the reported metal hauls recorded as having no estimated value.
That equates to £477.54 per load of lead they were able to sell.
The vast majority of recorded cases of theft comes from homes. Of the 158 cases, 49 were stolen from a dwelling.
Schools were the next biggest target, with 20 schools having lead stolen from their roofs, followed by building sites, churches and shops.
It is a topic that has made frequent headlines in recent months.
In August, a west Belfast community was left angry and frustrated after more than 20 manhole covers were stolen from the grounds of a community centre.
The Sally Garden Centre in Poleglass was left struggling to find the £2,000 to replace the metal covers.
Just last week lead and copper was stripped off the roofs of the old Downe Hospital and the Downshire hospital in Downpatrick.
Such cases are the tip of the iceberg for scrap metal thefts, which leave property owners out of pocket by thousands of pounds.
Factfile
Advice from police to help protect your property from metal thieves:

Remove or delay fitting metal such as copper tanks and copper pipes if a house is going to be empty
Mark metal with tamper-proof stickers, UV spray or grease
Use signs on vacant properties warning metal has been marked or removed. Consider using anti-climb paint. However, you may have to display signage
Artificial lead (which is lower in resale value) is a good replacement in the event of a theft.
In some cases CCTV and warning signs could help

The full article can be found at: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/metal-theft-doubles-in-one-year-as-robbers-target-homes-16081859.html#ixzz1ecztlGMA

(Reproduced from Belfast Telegraph 24th Nov 2011)

Gardien Comment: The problem of metal theft has now reached epidemic proportions and everyone needs to take due precautions, especiaally for outdoor metal items such as benches, children's swings etc. Advice and products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Why don’t you steal this gnome as well, mate...

2011-11-21T10:18:00.000-08:00

Missing Gnomes sign in the front garden

THEFT is gnome joke to one keen gardener who has put up a sign calling on thieves to take his final lonely figure.

Ashley Nelson put up the sign after two of his three gnomes were swiped in one night.
Mr Nelson and his wife Jean had made an attractive feature in their garden in Chapel Road, Terrington St Clement, using the gnomes, a footballer and male and female bowlers.
Mr Nelson put up the sign shortly after the theft three weeks ago, calling on the thief to take the final figure, the male bowler, as he is “bloody lonely.”
The figures have not been returned to the couple, which shows that there is gnome limit to how low the thieves will stoop.
Mr Nelson said: “They are not valuable things but it is the fact that we try to keep our garden looking nice with a few things dotted about.
“Someone took a liking to them and thought that they had more right to them than us. It is a kick in the teeth.”
The couple were given the bowling figures, painted in their club colours, to mark their pearl anniversary. The bowler gnome is 18in high.
The footballer was given to Mr Nelson to mark a successful season for Terrington St Clement Football Club during his time as manager.
The 2ft figure was painted in the club colours of claret and blue.
Both gnomes were taken from the garden on October 21, an extra blow for Mr Nelson as it was Trafalgar Day.
Mr Nelson, who is still the football club’s secretary, would like to have them back at gnome sweet gnome.
This is not the first time, gnome-nappers have taken ornaments from the couple’s garden.
A gnome and five lights from the pond had been taken from the garden in the past.
Mr Nelson said he put up the sign due to his wicked sense of humour, which has appealed to passing drivers.
He said: “I have had quite a few people stop and laugh about the sign. I did hope to get them back but they’ll probably be on a some car boot sale now.”

(Reproduced from Lynn News, 21st November 2011)

Gardien Comment: Nice to be able to laugh about it but theft from gardens can be very distressing. See www.garden-security.co.uk for free advice on protection.

Scrap metal thefts continue to increase

2011-11-20T02:00:00.000-08:00

AN INCREASE in scrap metal theft has prompted local police to put out a warning for people to be vigilant.

Horncastle PCSO Nigel Wass said there has been a spate of thefts of scrap metal items in the area, including batteries and associated equipment from farms, allotments and garden.
He said: “It is thought people looking for scrap often driving flatbed vehicles like Ford Transits etc are stealing the items.
“If you notice people in your area collecting scrap or acting suspiciously could you please take details of the type of vehicle, colour, how many people are inside and importantly the vehicle registration.
“Also if you have items that are not secure in your garden it is good advice to secure these or remove them from view.”
The News also heard from Jason Moore of Copper Street, Bucknall, who became aware of the theft risk after some scrap was stolen from outside his house.
He said: “There is not a lot of awareness about scrap theft. It wasn’t really worth that much, but that’s not the point.
“It is one of those industries that can make immediate profit.”
Another prevalent problem in the area is lead theft from church roofs.
This issue has got so serious that Lincolnshire Police even launched a major operation last month, where checkpoints were set up at various locations around Horncastle.
Vehicles suspected of carrying illegal scrap metal were checked and two arrests were made.
If you have any information regarding scrap metal thefts, contact PCSO Wass on 07939312724.
Alternatively call Lincolnshire Police on 0300 111 0300

(Reproduced from Horncastle News)

Gardien Comment: Nothing made of metal and kept outside is now safe from potential theft. Everyone should review their outside possessions and seek advice if necessary on how to protect them

Stealing scrap metal could kill you

2011-11-07T05:13:00.000-08:00

Metal thefts have doubled since last year but rates could be set to drop as the value of scrap metal is plummeting and police are asking the culprits: “Is it worth risking your life over?”

Between April 2009 and March 2010 there were 187 incidents of metal theft in Wokingham and 179 in Bracknell. During the same period in 2010/11 there were 298 in Wokingham and 268 in Bracknell – leaps of 59 per cent and 49 per cent respectively.
Ferrous metals like iron and steel have been targeted by thieves as well as lead – commonly roof tiles – and copper, which is why criminals take cables such as those found on railway tracks.
Police say the rise is not just down to the inflated price of scrap metal, but also due to better recording of incidents.
Police also say that many scrap yards around the area are full because of the stagnation in the global economy, meaning building materials are not in demand. It means the prices they will pay for once-expensive metals like copper and lead are falling fast.
Nick Gilbert, crime reduction adviser for Thames Valley Police, said: “The price of scrap is coming down – there’s lots of lead waiting around to be bought.
“It means dealers aren’t going to be paying the same prices for metals and word will get around.
“What we want to ask is whether it’s really worth the risk? People are putting their lives and other people’s at risk to steal metal which soon won't be worth very much.
“We’ve had cases where high-voltage power cables have been stolen from power stations and people have been electrocuted while doing it.
“We also had an incident where the phone lines in a whole Oxfordshire village were down for a week because of cable theft – that put people’s lives at risk.
“There has been an upturn in metal thefts and we’ve invested a lot of time and money into Operation Precious to deal with it because we want to stop it and the people who are stealing metal are often involved in other crimes too.
“In a way, we’ve been the victims of our own success. In the past if someone had stolen a garden bench for the metal it might not have recognised by us as a metal theft but now it would be.
“I’m not suggesting that metal thefts haven’t gone up, because they have, but the figures are slightly out of proportion.”
Although there were more metal thefts in Reading last year – 526 – the percentage rise was not as high as it was in Wokingham or Bracknell.
Mr Gilbert said: “They are very rural areas and rural areas tend to suffer more at times like this because metals can be more accessible.
“There have been lots of incidents in Wokingham and Bracknell where farming equipment has been stolen and that’s a large element of what’s been happening there.”
He also encouraged people to report any incidents they think might have been connected to metal theft to police.
He added: “For example, if you see someone doing roadworks at 2am, even if they’re wearing a yellow jacket and all that, there’s a good chance they aren’t actually doing roadworks.
“It’s better to report something like that to the police and have it turn out to be a false alarm than to let it happen if it is a theft.”
If you have any information about metal thefts you can call police on 0845 8 505 505 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If you spot a metal theft in progress call 999.

(Reproduced from getwokingham.co.uk 7th Nov)

Gardien Comment: Metal items in your garden are at risk - apart from our metal sheds which are anchored through their base to the ground. They are thus a very safe place to keep items out of sight. See the range at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/Steel-Storage-Unit.aspx

Out-dated scrap metal laws blamed for £1billion a year theft epidemic

2011-11-07T05:06:00.000-08:00

Scrap bandits are stealing Zimmer frames and grave-robbing as a metal theft epidemic sweeps the country.

Nothing is sacred in this £1billion a year crimewave – as war memorials, churches, wheelchair ramps and even the final resting places of dead children are targeted.
Organised gangs have also caused untold disruption to the rail and electricity networks.

More than 4,000 incidents were reported in the North East - one of the areas hardest hit - over the past 12 months alone.

But it is the desecration of memorials to the war dead, and loved ones in cemeteries, which has caused the most anguish.
Mum Stacey Plain was devastated when decorative iron railings were taken from the grave of her little boy, who died from meningitis aged 18 months.
The final resting place of her son Jordan Lee Cardiss, who tragically passed away nine years ago, was ruined by the grave robbers.
Dad Dean Cardiss, 27, who visits the grave every day, had put up railings he hand-made as a special tribute.
Stacey, 27, from Beeston, Leeds, said: “The grave is all I have left of my son, just that little grave to go and see.We go there to feel closer to our baby and to speak to him.
“The pain I felt when I saw his tribute destroyed was like we had lost Jordan all over again. I felt sick. You can tell it is a baby’s grave. For them to rip his fences out of the ground is sickening.”
The heart-breaking theft epitomises the consequences of the crime blighting the country.
In the past year, they have rocketed as the price of scrap increased.
Copper has doubled in price to over £5,000 a ton since 2009. The rise is driven by growing global demand for metals, prompted by China and India and other booming economies.
The illicit trade in stolen metal is costing the UK economy £1billion a year. Garden ornaments, farm gates, manhole covers, road signs – thousands of them have disappeared across the country.
Labour is backing widespread calls for new laws against the “no questions asked” dealers fuelling the trade.
In the past month alone, thieves snatched a Zimmer frame from a woman in her late 80s in Stanley, Co Durham, while another took a walking aid from a 12-year-old boy with cerebral palsy in Tynemouth, North Tyneside. National licensing regulations are needed to replace the current system for scrap dealers who are required to simply register with local authorities, according to Blyth MP Ronnie Campbell.
He wants dealers to be prosecuted if they are found to have knowingly bought stolen scrap metal.
“It is a terrible trade and it is getting worse,” he said. “These thieves will take anything for money. There must be some dealers who know fine well that what they are buying has been stolen.
“It is public property and, in some cases, part of our heritage that is being taken from us.”
Churches have suffered heavily at the hands of the unscrupulous scrap thieves. “There is not a diocese in the country unaffected by lead theft,” says Katri Link of Ecclesiastical Insurance.
The Church estimates more than a third of its 16,000 buildings have been targeted, many on several occasions. There have been more than 2,000 insurance claims this year compared with 12 in 2002.
After paying out £24.5million since 2007, Ecclesiastical has capped its payments at £5,000.
One night last month, thieves used crowbars to remove plaques bearing the names of 700 fallen servicemen from a memorial in South London.
David Plattern, of the Royal British Legion local branch, said: “It is disgusting. The only reason they can come here at night is because the people on there gave their lives so we could have this open society.”
War Memorials Trust director Frances Moreton added: “If you have lost this memorial and lost a plaque then, in effect, you have lost a touchstone to your history that you may never get back.”
When criminals plundered lead from the flat roof of Bishop’s Palace in Lincoln last month, the epidemic was described as “one of the biggest threats to the country’s heritage”.
The Government is debating legislation to tackle the crisis, with the 1964 Scrap Metal Dealers Act now seen as inadequate. Labour wants dealers to be licensed, cash trading banned and police empowered to close down rogue traders.
Ministers have met to discuss converting the whole UK metal trade to a cashless system where all transactions require ID and a credit or debit card.
With France and Belgium already having such a system, the UK has fallen victim to “theft tourism” with gangs coming in from mainland Europe to rip out our power network.
Power and telecommunications firms and rail industry chiefs have branded the crisis “out of control”.
Power supply firms were hit by 6,000 metal thefts last year, with 25,500 homes experiencing black-outs. And that means bills go up.
There are fears hundreds of thousands of homes could be plunged into darkness as our power network is targeted over the winter months.
Audacious raids this year have seen thieves slice through anti-climb guards and scale 30ft pylons to cut overhead lines carrying 132,000 volts.National Grid recently reported for the first time the theft of an earth wire from one of the larger pylons, carrying a 275,000-volt power line.
BT say stolen telephone wire has accounted for more than 220 arrests so far this year.
And theft of rail cable has caused 16,000 hours of passenger delays in three years.
British Transport Police have called metal thefts their “biggest challenge after counterterrorism”, with 10,000 such crimes a month across the network.
It causes horrendous problems on the rail network, with severe delays and cancellation.
Theft of signalling cable has caused 16,000 hours of passenger hold-ups in three years.
A single copper cable stolen from the rail network could net a thief around £50 – but can disrupt hundreds of trains and costs tens of thousands to repair.
Last week it emerged former Gurkhas were patrolling railways to stop thieves stealing tracks and cables in the north.
British Transport Police deputy chief constable Paul Crowther said: “A white van man can turn up with copper cables in the back of his van and walk away with six, seven or £8,000 in cash with almost no questions asked.”

Reproduced from Daily Mirror 7th November. The full story appears at: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/11/07/out-dated-scrap-metal-laws-blamed-for-1billion-a-year-theft-epidemic-115875-23543438/#ixzz1d1Xwgsmw

Gardien Comment: Any metal item left out in your garden is at risk of being stolen. Minimise the risk by following the advice available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Ammanford neighbour spies theft of mower

2011-11-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

HOUSEHOLDERS should be wary of leaving metal in view after a scrap dealer admitted stealing a lawn mower from an Ammanford garden. John Joseph McCarthy, of Penybryn caravan site near Llanelli, admitted taking the mower without permission. Ammanford magistrates heard how McCarthy, aged 48, and two others were seen in Villiers Road at 2pm on September 2.
Rhian Millidge, prosecuting, said McCarthy was seen taking the mower from Karen Jenkins’ garden, loading it into a white van and driving away.
A neighbour, who noted the van’s registration, informed Ms Jenkins and the police were called. McCarthy was stopped 30 minutes later with the mower still in the van.
McCarthy initially claimed he had permission to take the mower, but later admitted stealing it.
David Elvey, defending, said McCarthy was part of the traveller community for whom scrap dealing was considered traditional employment.
“However, a lot of people who have jumped on the bandwagon,”
said Mr Elvey.
Mr Elvey said McCarthy would normally seek permission before taking any item.
“On this occasion he appears to have jumped the gun somewhat,”
said Mr Elvey.
“In this garden was an old decrepit-looking lawn mower and because of its condition and age he assumed it was not wanted.
“He genuinely believed it was scrap but accepts that was not for him to decide.”
Magistrates fined McCarthy £200 and ordered he pay £85 costs and a £15 legal surcharge.

(Reproduced from South Wales Guardian, 4th Nov 2011)

Gardien Comment: Nice to see someone being caught and dealt with but it goes to show that any metal item is at risk these days. There is a range of security solutions available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Bronze statue stolen from Westhumble garden (Surrey)

2011-11-02T04:58:00.000-07:00

POLICE have renewed warnings about metal thefts after a bronze statue was taken from a Westhumble garden.

Metal has been stolen on numerous occasions in Mole Valley this year, with criminals motivated by soaring prices
The latest item stolen is a four-foot bronze sculpture of a girl holding a bird, which belonged to Angela Gilchrist.
She said: "Whoever has taken our statue came in the middle of the night and must have known what they were doing because the statue was rather weighty.
"It is rather unsettling really and I would urge anyone who has a similar item to perhaps take it indoors at night to avoid being the next target."
Mrs Gilchrist opens her garden to the public every year as part of the National Garden Scheme (NGS).
She said: "Our garden, the Ashleigh Grange, has been open through the NGS for three days each June for nearly ten years and during this time we have had probably 300 visitors a year, but never any problems.
"I don't think the fact that we open our garden for three days a year is the reason for the theft, I think that because of all this talk with the value of metal on the increase that someone has either seen or heard about ours and thought they could make some money."
But she added: "The sad thing is that our statue was made of bronze resin and therefore would be of no real value to anyone.
"But we were very fond of our girl and are deeply upset that someone would take it from us."
The statue was taken on the evening of October 13 or early the next morning. Anyone with information should contact police on 101.
The Advertiser has reported numerous metal thefts this year, including lead taken from church roofs, copper wire dug up from underground and a bronze elephant taken from a garden in Abinger Hammer.
Detective Constable Jamie Keech said: "As the cost of metal rises on the global market we are seeing more metal items targeted by thieves.
"Whilst copper and lead are particularly at risk, this recent spate of bronze statue thefts shows other metals are also being targeted.
"Surrey Police is working to find those responsible but we are also advising residents who own metal statues and ornaments to be on their guard and take some precautions.
"Consider how the item is currently secured and if necessary move it to a secure area out of sight from public view."

(Reproduced from Surrey Today 1st Nov 2011)

Gardien Comment: See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

Fish stolen from garden pond in Saham Toney, near Watton

2011-10-29T05:29:00.000-07:00

Dozens of Koi Carp fish worth around £5,000 were stolen from a garden pond.
More than 45 fish were taken after the thieves forced open a side gate leading into the garden and emptied the pond.
Officers are keen to speak to anyone who may have spotted anyone acting suspiciously in the area or who may have recently been offered Koi Carp for sale in suspicious circumstances.
Witnesses are asked to contact PC Carl Evans at Norfolk police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111

(Reproduced from EDP24.co.uk 29th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: Clearly the gate was not strong enough and so illegal entry to the garden was too easy. Alarms are also available to protect the pond itself - Roboguard is now available from Gardien, for information see http://www.delcom-radio.com/services-and-solutions/security-and-ids-security-systems-and-outdoor-alarms/roboguard-wireless-outdoor-security-system.html

Five ways to protect your property from criminals

2011-10-28T01:41:00.000-07:00

The number of reported burglaries rose by 26% in the week between Halloween and Bonfire night last year, according to new research.

During this week last year, there were 3,742 burglaries reported, compared to a weekly average of 2,995 for the rest of the year. And Bonfire night is the worst day of the year for break-ins, says Aviva.

Over the past 10 years, there has been a whopping 150% rise in ‘malicious' damage claims to homes, including smashed windows and damage to garden property, in the week from 30 October to 5 November. Claims for car damage have also shot up 50% and reports of car theft are up by 20%.
Strathclyde saw the highest number of reported burglaries last year, with a 57% increase on the previous year. Next on the list was Northamptonshire with a 53% rise, and third was South Wales with a 45% rise.
Rob Townend, property claims director for Aviva, says: "Unfortunately, the combination of darker nights and a mischievous occasion like Halloween or a noisy one like Bonfire Night present too good an opportunity for some criminals to resist. These are real hotspots in the crime calendar when homes and cars can be more at risk than any other time in the year.
"Obviously, theft and malicious damage are covered as standard by your home insurance if the worst does happen, but it's best to take steps to avoid having the worry of being a victim of crime in the first place."
Five tips for protecting your property from criminals
1. Keep your car in the garage and if it's on the road make sure there are no valuables in sight.
2. Move garden ornaments, bikes, and potted plants out of sight.
3. Don't answer the door on Halloween night and if you're heading out leave a light on so your house looks occupied and make sure burglar alarms are activated.
4. Check the locks are working on sheds, greenhouses and garages and keep your windows and doors locked if you're in the garden.
5. Make sure you have adequate insurance to cover any losses should you be unfortunate enough to have your home broken into or damaged. When buying insurance make sure you read all the smallprint to ensure you're fully covered against all eventualities.

(Reproduced from Moneywise.co.uk 27th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: These statistics support the theory that the darker evenings lead to more house and garden crime. Since most burglars enter a property via the rear garden, it is essential to look at protecting the garden, shed etc. Advice and products are available at www.garden-security.co.uk

‘Light the night’ at library (Hartlepool)

2011-10-26T04:55:00.000-07:00

RESIDENTS will be urged to “light up the night” during a crime prevention session in a library.
With the longer nights drawing in and the clocks set to go back, crime prevention officers in Hartlepool are urging householders to think about security.
They say the dark is welcoming for criminals who can sneak around without being seen. But there are simple steps that can be taken to make their task harder.
A Light the Night Against Crime event is being held at Hartlepool’s Central Library, in York Road, where residents can get free advice and also buy discounted light timers and night lights.
PC Steve Cranston, a crime prevention officer, will be among the advisors at the event between 11am-1pm on Thursday.
PC Cranston said: “By constantly reiterating the message to residents about ways in which they can prevent themselves from becoming a victim of crime we ensure that we can stay one step ahead of the criminals.
“I would urge residents to spend some time with us at the library and take advantage of the advice we have to offer.” he added.
Householders are urged to use timer switches or to leave lights on if their home is unoccupied to reduce burglaries throughout the winter months.
Lights with sensors on the outside of houses, sheds and garages are said to be a good deterrent.
Officers are also encouraging householders to fit key-operated window locks to windows that are easily accessible and to keep doors locked when they are inside, but keep keys in a safe place in case of an emergency.
Mortice bolts at the top and bottom of any external doors are also advised and people are reminded to always set burglar alarms overnight.
Although crime continues to fall, Hartlepool Police, working in conjunction with Hartlepool Crime Prevention Panel, say they want to ensure it stays that way and to raise awareness of home security.

(Reproduced from Hartlepool Mail 26th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: The easy way into most properties is via the garden, and the shed is then the number one target, if only to find tools to break into the house. See the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Bikes stolen from a garden

2011-10-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

Two bicycles were stolen from the garden of a home. The thief targeted the home in Callon Street, Callon, Preston, between 5.30pm and 8pm on Sunday. A child’s black BMX was stolen as well as a Tiger mountain bike which were worth £80 each. Anyone with information is asked to call 08451 253545

(Reproduced from Lancashire Evening Post, 25th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: The distress caused to children after such thefts is serious and should be avoided if possible. See the article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Bootle dad says it is time to nail down his front garden after turf theft

2011-10-20T07:47:00.000-07:00

A BOOTLE dad fears he now has to 'nail down his lawn ' after thieves stole a patch of artificial turf from his front garden.

Liverpool FC fan Billy Graham is in a state of ‘disbelief’ after thieves made off with a 6ft x 8ft section of his front garden while he was watching television with his wife at home.

Billy, who lives on the corner of Oxford Road and Fernhill Road, suspect the heavy section of bright green plastic grass was dumped in to a waiting vehicle by the thieves.

He is now appealing for its return.

The dad decided to lay down the artificial turf in his back garden a couple of years ago for his three teenage sons to play football on, although the section of plastic grass in the front was purely decorative.

The Graham family are all Liverpool FC fans and Billy's sons have all played for local side Northfield JFC.
Billy, 43, said: “At first I thought it was a joke by kids and I would find the turf at the side of my house.
“But no – it was actually stolen and bundled into a vehicle at the side of my house.
“I have worked all my life and put all my money in to this house for my family.
“I just think it is wrong that people can just come and help themselves to my property.
“Last year thieves made off with the goalposts in the back garden.
“When I bought a replacement someone tried to steal that, but fortunately one of my neighbours gave chase and got the goals back.
“ I am normally very proud of my town and will defend it against any bad comments from outsiders.
“I was born and bred in Bootle and I always stand up for the place, but now I feel like I have to nail down the grass in my own garden.
“The police are taking this matter seriously.
“If any of your readers notice their neighbour has suddenly got a 6ft piece of deep green plastic turf in their garden can you ask them to let the police know.”
A spokesman for Merseyside Police said: “We can confirm that an unwitnessed theft was reported to them on October 14.
“The victims, a 43-year-old man and his wife, reported that at around 8pm on October 12 a piece of plastic turf was stolen from their garden.
“A police officer has spoken to the couple and advised them of the benefits of installing CCTV as well as offering other crime prevention advice.
“Police community support officers will continue to patrol the area where the theft occurred.”
Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call 0151 709 6010 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from SeftonandWestLancs.co.uk 20th Oct 2011) Gardien Comment: If it is not possible to easily prevent access to the rear garden, then CCTV or a cheaper suitable alarm system will minimise the risk of unwanted visitors. For advice and products see www.garden-security.co.uk

Garden and shed thefts rise by 13%

2011-10-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

The number of thefts from outside homes, gardens and sheds rose by 13% over the last year, figures show.

Levels of such crimes have generally remained steady for the last six years and the increase comes despite overall crime levels remaining stable, figures from the British Crime Survey show.
A total of 1,314 incidents were reported in the 12 months to June, compared with just 1,167 incidents between July 2009 and June 2010, the BCS figures show.
The British Crime Survey (BCS), based on interviews with tens of thousands of people in more than 45,000 households, also showed increases in lower-level theft offences, such as pick-pocketing, shoplifting and thefts from homes by workmen.

Read More http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/2011/10/20/garden-and-shed-thefts-rise-by-13-91466-29630412/#ixzz1bKOafrGB

(Reproduced from Wales Online 20th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: We suspect that the vast majority of such crimes go unreported and the true figures are very much higher. Advice re Shed Security can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Tandem hire firm counts cost of theft

2011-10-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

A tandem cycle enthusiast is appealing for help after thieves stole four of her hire bikes from her Blackbird Leys back garden.

Student Patricia Kacprzak and her boyfriend started a hire business earlier this year, buying eight tandem cycles to rent to tourists.
The 24-year-old, who has lived in Blackbird Leys for three years since moving to the UK from Poland, told the Oxford Mail: “They were stolen from our back garden, each one is worth about £400.
“We only started trading early this year when the season started.”
The thieves struck while Miss Kacprzak and boyfriend Milan Miskolczi, 30, were asleep on October 3rd.
She said: “One of our housemates looked through the window in the morning and realised that the cover was lifted and something seemed to be missing.
“We were shocked. We really did not expect this, we feel very disappointed and a bit empty.
“We’ve started to feel a bit insecure and are making sure that we have definitely locked everything up.”
The thieves removed a fence panel to get into the back garden before making off with the cycles.
Police later spotted one of the bikes being ridden in Blackbird Leys on October 5 but the person on it ran off before officers could stop him.
They did however recover the bike, which is now being examined by forensic experts.
Miss Kacprzak, who said they had spent about £5,000 setting up the business, added: “We really thought that starting our own business would be a good way of dealing with the current economic climate.
“Being healthy and sporty is our hobby as well and so we thought we could combine the two things for a little bit of extra income.
“Milan used to do triathalons when he was younger.
“We looked around for a business idea and found this, and thought it was a good idea that would be popular in Oxford.”
She added: “We believe somebody has watched us on Saturday when we were out riding with friends and then planned this. You can’t see over the fence.
“The police have acted quickly.
“They recovered a bike, but they didn’t catch the boy.”
Anyone with information should call Pc Ben Jones on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111

(Reproduced from The Oxford Mail, 18th Oct 2011)

Gardien Tip: Free advice on Bike Security is available at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Roadshow has advice to stop rural crime

2011-10-18T09:38:00.000-07:00

With a spate of thefts from farms and rural properties across the county, police are encouraging people to attend a security road show next month. The thefts of metal, fuel, farming equipment and garden ornaments are costing victims thousands of pounds, and police believe some may be the work of organised gangs.
Rural crime team PCSO John Bordiss said the force was taking the problem seriously but prevention and detection would improve if people upped their security.
“Rural crime is on the rise, it is part of a national trend at the moment, as metal prices are high and the countryside is a very open place,” he said.
“But there are lots of options for people looking to improve their security and mark their property, and that is what these roadshows are intended to demonstrate.”
The roadshow will take place at the Rye Hill Barn in Longbridge Deverill, near Warminster, on November 2.
The rural crime team, local officers, and experts in security, insurance and farming will offer visitors advice and guidance.
Visitors can also sign up to the Wiltshire Farm-watch and Horsewatch schemes, which use text message and email alerts to notify members of suspicious/criminal activities.
The free event runs from 10am to 4pm and includes saddle stamping and refreshments. Call 101 for more information.

(Reproduced from The Wiltshire Times, 15th Oct 2011)

Gardien Comment: The products to help minimise such crime can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Fuel Theft now a major problem

2011-10-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

With the dark nights coming in and the clocks soon to go back the opportunities for thieves are again on the increase. Fuel theft has become a major problem, particularly in rural areas, and due precautions should be taken to minimise the risk of loss. Thieves have no scruples at all and they can do a lot of damage by drilling into tanks or cutting fuel lines and siphoning off fuel in a few short minutes.

Sadly, rising unemployment and fear of a worsening recession is leading to an increase in garden crime so it is time to take defensive action, especially if the fuel tank is sited at a distance from the property. Alarms such as the Garden Laser Tripwire (http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-laser-tripwire.aspx) can warn of an unwanted approach and high-quality insurance rated padlocks should always be used to secure any doors / flaps on the tank. Depending on the proximity of the tank to the property (for mains power), a CCTV system such as Guardcam (http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-floodlight-PIR-camera-video.aspx) will record the activity at a good enough quality to support a prosecution, and its floodlight will probably scare off the intruders anyway.

Posted by Gardien Ltd 13th Oct 2011

Bike security: the home front

2011-10-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

Two-thirds of bikes get stolen in or around the home. What's the best way to protect yuors when it's off duty?

With an estimated half million-plus bikes stolen in the UK every year, it's no surprise that security is a perennial topic on cycling blogs and forums. Typically these tend to centre around preventing theft when you're out and about – which locks (or combination of locks) are most thief-resistant, ways to make your bike less attractive, that sort of stuff.

But there is another, often neglected side to this: what to do you do with your treasured machine when you're at home? This is, in fact, the more important part of the problem.
According to the British Crime Survey – the most valuable gauge of the subject given that it records people's experiences and not whether they reported it to the police, something many bike theft victims don't bother with – well over two-thirds of cycles are stolen in or near the owner's home.
The bulk of these, just over 60% of all the thefts, took place in the immediate area around the home, for example bikes left in a shed, in a garden or locked up on the street outside.
There's a few hard and fast rules when it comes to not losing your bike this way. To begin with, if at all possible, don't leave it locked up overnight on the street or somewhere else where it's visible from the street, like a front garden.
A reformed former thief told the Bike blog last year how he'd roam the streets looking for suitably nick-able machines routinely left in the same spots. If they're there after dark they're easy pickings for an experienced gang in a van filled with bolt croppers and angle grinders.
An addendum to this rule is that you should never lock your bike to the iron railings outside many Victorian homes. As a friend found to his cost, a sharp hit with a hammer will generally snap the railing, another favourite thieves' trick.
Of course, not everyone has the space (or the desire) to keep a bike or bikes inside their homes, and even if you're able to leave it in a communal hallway or corridor it's not necessarily much safer.
There's no straightforward answer to this. Designers are busy working on creative new ways to keep bikes safe both inside and out of the home. A Home Office-sponsored Design Council competition earlier this year came up with some interesting ideas, though nothing astonishingly new: a few clever-ish widgets to lock bikes to a fixed item in hallways, plus a variant on the metal bike sheds which have sprung up around some front gardens in recent years.
But it's worth thinking hard about what would be the greater inconvenience: sharing a bit of your flat or house with a grubby, oily bike or, quite possibly, not having a bike any more.
The other rule goes for those who do have a garden, yard, or side lane in which to keep their bike: even if it's out of sight of the road, it still needs to be locked up to something. It's the bike thieves' other standard routine to trawl the gardens of an entire street, loading a van with unlocked bikes, or those locked just to themselves.
This is where I'll offer up my own recipe for you (and your bike) to sleep securely at night – take some tips from our friends in the world of motorcycling.
If you're willing to spend the money on home-only security (and again, it's worth balancing the admittedly high cost against the financial and mental anguish of possibly losing your bike) then you can forget about weight and size and delight in locks hefty enough to anchor an average-sized battleship.
I recently moved into a flat in a 1940s block where residents can rent garages on the site, a big selling point for someone whose bike collection now numbers somewhere between "several" and "a small fleet". My garage is tucked round the back, well out of sight of the road but, equally, far enough from the flats to potentially interest an opportunistic thief.
I spent a recent afternoon installing a hefty ground anchor, to which my bikes are now attached with a very long, alarmingly heavy, motorbike chain. Both of these are certified by the Sold Secure industry scheme as gold motorbike standard, significantly more thief-proof than the bicycle equivalent.
No security system is invulnerable, of course, but cutting the chain would most likely need a significant amount of time using power tools, something few thieves would risk for such a relatively insignificant haul.
It also wasn't cheap, not far short of £200 also counting the hire of a very macho heavy-duty cordless drill to install the ground anchor in the concrete floor. But a high proportion of this was spent on a particularly long chain, something people with a more sensible number of bikes won't need.
And now, as we inevitably say on such posts – over to you. What are your handy tips for bike home security? And have you made any costly mistakes?

(Reproduced from an article by Peter Walker, Guardian.co.uk 12th October 2011)

Gardien tip: See the article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Scrap metal thieves take kids’ swing from Portsmouth garden

2011-10-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

NAN Beryl Davis has been left angry after scrap metal thieves took a children’s swing from her front garden.
The 70-year-old had planned to donate grandson Jake’s swing to Community Spirit in Copnor Road, Copnor, as he has outgrown it.
But it was stolen from outside the front of her home in Locarno Road, Copnor, before she had a chance.
Beryl had laid the frame flat on the ground, out of view of passers-by, and then headed straight to the community hub to ask someone to collect it.
When she returned two hours later, she discovered the metal frame had disappeared – but the plastic bucket seat was still on her doorstep.
It was only when she took the seat into the shop, thinking the organisation had forgotten it, that Beryl realised she had become the latest victim in a spate of metal thefts.
The grandmother said: ‘I was absolutely devastated when I realised what had happened.
‘I thought I was doing a good turn by donating it and now I feel like that’s been taken away from me.
‘Jake and my granddaughter Shazia both used it when they were younger and they had so much fun in it, but they’re too big for it now.
‘We all got a lot of enjoyment out of the swing and that’s why I wanted to pass it on to another family.’
Police confirmed they are treating the incident as a metal theft, and said there has been a rise in similar thefts across the area as the price of metal has increased.
Lorraine Taynton, founder of Community Spirit, said: ‘The amount of times I hear about this sort of thing happening is getting ridiculous.
‘That swing could’ve benefited a family on a low income but now it’s not benefiting anyone except the thieves and I’m so annoyed about that.
‘This shop is all about putting things back into the community at a low cost, and people have been asking me for garden toys ever since we opened.
‘And the first chance I have to give them something like that, it gets pinched.’
As well as selling donated goods, the organisation runs free community classes and workshops, from cross stitch to growing vegetables in the shop’s back garden.
The theft took place some time between 10.30am and 12.30pm on Monday, September 26. Call police on 101 if you can help.

(Reproduced from The News (Portsmouth) 3rd October 2011

Gardien Tip: Metal theft is now at epidemic proportions and stolen items are soon sold on as scrap. It is important, therefore, to minimise access to places where metal items exist. See our advice at www.garden-security.co.uk

Boy 'devastated' at bike theft

2011-09-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

A schoolboy has been left heartbroken after his bike was stolen.Nine-year-old Jack Rogers had left his bright green BMX in the back garden of his home in Berridge Road, Sheerness.
It was taken on Saturday, between about 2pm and 3.30pm.
There is a 6ft high wall around the garden and his mother, Stephanie Heaton, believes the thief must have climbed over to get in as the gate is bolted from the inside.
Only Jack's bike was stolen from the garden, despite his younger brother Connor's bike being alongside it.
The BMX was the West Minster Primary School pupil's Christmas present two years ago and Ms Heaton said he had had his heart set on it for a long time and he is devastated.
She is hopeful someone may have noticed the thief climbing over the wall and is appealing for people to come forward if they have any information.
Ms Heaton said she was in all day except for the 90 minutes when she thinks it must have been taken as she had gone into town.
The 31-year-old added: "He's pretty heartbroken that his beloved bike has gone.
"I'm wondering if someone saw him out on it and followed him back and stole it as they didn't take my younger son's bike."
The bike, which is worth about £100, has a frayed brake cable on the back and is rusty at the front and the handgrip is broken on the very end.
Sgt Stefan Martin, of the Island Neighbourhood Team, said: "These thefts can be very opportunistic so we always promote the use of a good quality cycle lock to deter thieves.
"We also recommend that cyclists mark their bikes with a UV pen.
"This means that if we recover a stolen bicycle it will be easier for us to return it to its rightful owner.
"The bike that was stolen was marked so that will help with identifying the owner should we recover it."

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Kent Police on 01622 690690 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01622 690690

(Reproduced from Sheerness Times Guardian, 28th Sept)

Gardien Tip: See our article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Moped stolen from garden

2011-09-28T04:50:00.000-07:00

POLICE are appealing for information after a moped was stolen from the rear garden of a home in South Somerset. The theft took place sometime between Saturday, September 17, and Saturday, September 24, when a yellow Gilera 50cc moped was taken from a garden in Baunton's Orchard, Milborne Port.
The moped was stolen with the rear number plate still attached but it is not drivable, possibly stolen for scrap.
PCSO Mandy Forsey said: "This has made the victim very distressed - the victim was hoping to sell it for scrap to enable him to be able to buy something else.
"We are appealing for anyone locally who may have seen or heard these people to come forward. If you see a vehicle matching this description or it is seen or dumped we would ask you to report it to police." Anyone with information can contact local police on the new non-emergency number of 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.

(Reproduced from thisisthewestcountry.co.uk Sept 28th)

Gardien Tip: All metal objects are vulnerable at the moment due to the high prices realisable for scrap. Advice re security and a range of quality security products can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/Default.aspx

Large Garden Ornament Stolen

2011-09-28T04:40:00.000-07:00

Brechin Police are appealing for information about a number of thefts that have occurred over the last week.

A large garden ornament was stolen from a garden in Duriehill Road, Edzell at sometime between Friday, September 9 and 3 pm on Monday, September 12.
The ornament is a concrete fox with two cubs, about one foot in height, coloured and very heavy.
This item is of sentimental value and the owners are keen to have it returned.
Edzell residents are asked to check their gardens in case this item has been left in their garden or alternatively, if anyone has any information which may be of use they should contact Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222.

(Reproduced from Brechin Advertiser, 27th Sept)

Gardien Tip: Don't think that anything is too heavy to be stolen. Use Property Marking to help items to be returned to their rightful owner. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Blind girl’s lights stolen from garden

2011-09-07T05:17:00.000-07:00

A PARTIALLY sighted teenager has blasted the robbers who stole £90 of solar lights from her front garden, which guided her out of the house.

The 14-year-old and her mother, who did not want to be named because they fear reprisals, said the robbery of the 22 lights from their Kirk Hallam garden, was ‘disgusting’.
The girl, who suffers from a number of problems with her eyes and can only see three metres in front of her is registered blind.
For the last five years her mother has been lining the route from their front door to the garden fence with the lights, which automatically turn on when it gets dark, to help her find her way as the nights draw in.
The teenager said: “It’s just disgusting.
“It makes me feel that somebody has invaded our garden – our own space.
“It’s getting darker now so it’s going to be difficult for me when I get back from school.”
Her mother said: “I was so shocked and disgusted that someone could do this.”
As well as the lights, the callous thieves stole ornaments, of mostly sentimental value, from the garden and ripped the roof off a wishing well.
“It’s just the fact that they’ve come up all the way round the garden to steal them ,” said the mother.
“How low can you get?”
The girl and her mother have now said they will contact the police about the robbery which happened at some point between Friday August 19 and the following morning.
The incident is one of a string of anti-social behaviour offences in Kirk Hallam over the last few months.
“It’s definitely getting worse around here, especially with the gangs you see hanging around,” added the girl’s mother.
Police have said they have stepped up patrols in the town after a number of incidents.
These have included one in which resident Paula Fletcher had a for sale sign smashed through her window by thugs, two weeks ago.
Shopkeepers in Queen Elizabeth Way have organised a petition to install CCTV after they say gangs who congregate there every night are a constant nuisance.

(Reproduced from the Ilkeston Advertiser, 6th Sept 2011)

Gardien Tip: CCTV systems can now be installed at very reasonable prices and, as shown in the recent riots, they can really help to identify culprits. For some very cost-effective domestic systems, see http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-cctv.aspx

Southport burglar jailed the day after he commits crime

2011-09-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

A 40-year-old Southport man has been jailed for 12 weeks for stealing power tools from garden sheds.Gregory Hawkshaw, of Park Street pleaded guilty to stealing from sheds on Cumberland Road and Rutland Road at North Sefton Magistrates Court on Tuesday.
Angela Conlon, prosecuting, told the court the incident occurred at about 3.45am on Monday, August 29. She said: “The householder on Rutland Road called the police to say she had spotted two figures walking down her garden path.
“Officers were deployed to the location, and the police received a second report which said that two males had been seen in a garden on Cumberland Road.”
Officers arrested Hawkshaw and another accomplice – not the person who had been in the gardens with him – who had spotted in the bushes by officers.
This youth cannot be named for legal reasons. He pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods and will be sentenced next week.
Ms Conlon said: “Hawkshaw told police he had no money for food and he had gone from garden shed to garden shed looking for something to steal so he could sell it.” Ms Conlon said he had gone into the gardens with someone but that person left without taking anything. He called the youth to help him move the stolem items.
Defence solicitor Graham Halliwell said: “My client has made an early guilty plea and assisted the police with the recovery of other stolen goods.” Mr Halliwell asked for Hawkshaw to be given a community-based penalty, but magistrates senctenced Hawkshaw to 12 weeks.

(reproduced from the Southport Visiter, 1st Sept 2011)

Gardien Tip: See our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Statues valued at £85,000 stolen in North Yorkshire.

2011-09-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

The three statues have a combined weight of one and a half tonnes

Three metal statues together weighing one and a half tonnes have been stolen from a garden in North Yorkshire.

Two bronzes and a 10ft (3m) copper statue were stolen from Cawood near Selby. They are valued at £85,000.

The owner and sculptor was said to be "deeply upset" by the theft.

Det Con Lee Maeer of Selby CID said that scrap metal dealers should contact the police if offered "large quantities" of copper or bronze. Police appealed for information.

"It is possible that the thieves spent time in the area prior to the theft," added Det Con Maeer.

One of the bronze statues, Mayflower 2, is circular with a bar across the top and is 3ft (1m) high.

(Reproduced from BBC News/ York and North Yorkshire, 2nd Sept)

Gardien Tip: All metal items are now vulnerable to attack, irrespective of weight. For advice on how to protect, see www.garden-security.co.uk or call us on 0161-428-4228

Appeal to find stolen Buddha statue

2011-09-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

POLICE are trying to find a statue of Buddha that was taken in a garden theft.

The foot-tall, grey pot ornament was swiped from a garden in Greatham, on the outskirts of Hartlepool, during the night of Tuesday, August 30.
The statue, which stood in a garden in Queensway, is said to be very heavy.
Anyone who may know the whereabouts of the statue or any witnesses to the incident are asked to contact PC Alan Frost, of Hartlepool Police, on (01642) 302110 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

(Reproduced from Hartlepool Mail 3rd Sept 2011)

Gardien Tip: Use invisible property marking to enable easier return of stolen goods to their rightful owner. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Appeal to trace stolen 'baby gorilla' statue (Old Sodbury)

2011-09-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a gorilla statue was stolen from a garden in Old Sodbury.

The brown fibreglass 'baby gorilla' statue was created to mark the 175th anniversary of Bristol Zoo. Pupils from Old Sodbury Primary School had decorated it with their names and it had been loaned out to the community over the summer holiday.
It was taken from Church Lane between 6pm and 11.30pm on Saturday August 27 2011.

Anyone with any information about the theft is asked to contact Chipping Sodbury police station on 0845 456 7000 (or 101 from September 19 2011). Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

(Reproduced from Avon & Somerset Constabulary web site, 1st Sept.)

Gardien Tip: Use Forensic DNA to mark all unusual or valuable items - this hugely facilitates return to the rightful owner (although there probably aren't too many gorilla statues at large)!! See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

2011-08-30T12:24:00.000-07:00

Tractor weights stolen from Welwyn Garden City farm

TWENTY tractor weights weighing 500kg have been stolen from a farm in Welwyn Garden City.

Thieves raided Stanboroughbury Farm on Coopers Green Lane and took the weights, which were being stored in a box.
Police, who have released pictures of items resembling what was stolen, said the theft took place some time between July 21 and August 4.
Pc William Rogers-Overy said: “I would like to appeal to anyone who heard or saw any suspicious activity around the time of the incident to come forward.
“Alternatively, if someone has offered you the items for sale or you have seem them appear somewhere, I would also like to hear from you.
“They would be quite conspicuous and are fairly unique, but are though to have been stolen due to their scrap metal value.”
Call Pc Rogers-Overy with information on the non-emergency number 101.

(Reproduced from Welwyn Hatfield Times, 30th August)

Gardien Tip: There is currently no limit as to what metal objects thieves will take and they will soon have them melted down so retrieval is not feasible. The task, therefore, is to keep items of value in secure storage units such as metal sheds designed for the purpose - see http://www.garden-security.co.uk/Steel-Storage-Unit.aspx

Thieves take two quad bikes from Fenland.

2011-08-27T01:58:00.000-07:00

Mike Marriott’s red Quadzilla 325cc road-legal quad was stolen from his house in Leverington Common shortly before midnight on Thursday August 18 after the thieves gained access to his back garden.

The thieves cut the chains securing the quad as well as a child’s grey Apache 50cc, taken from Mr Marriott’s neighbour’s garden.
Red diesel and a number of tools were also stolen from his neighbour after they broke into two steel containers.
DC Kayleigh O’Brien, said: “I would appeal to anyone who may have seen the quad bikes or saw anything suspicious in the area between 9pm and 8am on Friday to contact me.
“As part of the investigation we are carrying out house to house enquiries and viewing CCTV.”
Despite the theft of the two vehicles police say there is not an increasing trend of quads being stolen in Fenland.
Mr Marriott declined to comment.
CONTACT: Anyone with information should call DC O’Brien on 0345 456 456 4 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from The Wisbech Standard, 26th August)

Gardien Tip: Expensive quad bikes should ideally be stored in a secure metal shed, but at the very least they should be protected by a suitable alarm system. Details available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Skelmersdale family devastated over theft of tribute to cadet Leah Alderson

2011-08-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

HEARTLESS thieves have stolen a tribute to a talented teenager who was killed in a gliding accidentSkelmersdale air cadet Leah Alderson was killed in 1995 aged just 14 when the glider she was in with an instructor plunged 2,000-ft following a mid-air collision. Friends and neighbours of her mum raised £300 to help buy a bench and a sundial as a memorial to her. That tribute stood in her step father’s garden for 16 years until he decided to move houseHe gave the tribute to his daughter – step sister Nicola Brophy – and the sundial was stolen from her garden last Thursday night.
Nicola said: “We are all absolutely devastated that this has happened.
“It was in my dad’s garden for 16 years and then it moves to mine and gets stolen.
“My daughter woke me up about 11.30pm to say the sundial had been stolen.
“The people who took the sundial probably didn’t realise that it is a tribute and we are appealing for it to be returned safe and sound.
“My grandchildren loved having the bench here and they say they are sitting on Leah’s bench when they come.
“I am worried now that the thieves might come back and take the bench.
“Although it is very heavy and I don’t think they will be able to move it.”
Nicola recalled how Leah’s tragic death hit the family hard.
She added: “Leah’s mum Margaret was really nervous the day she went to do the gliding.
“But I told her that Leah would be fine as the RAF do this sort of thing all the time.
“Leah was really excited about going. It was a terrible freak accident.
“Victoria was devastated when Leah died.
“She was only 13 at the time and that is a terrible age to lose someone you are close to.”
Skelmersdale ATC’s headquarters on Daniels Lane is named after Leah.
Commanding officer Flight Lieutenant Jo Henderson said: “Our hearts go out to Nicky and her family, to have had her memorial stolen from her own garden is so sad.
“We were devastated when Leah's sign was vandalised at the Squadron HQ so we know from experience a little of how she must be feeling.”
The theft has been reported to police.
If anyone can help with their enquiries they should call Skelmersdale Police on 0845 1 25 35 45.

(Reproduced from The Skelmersdale Advertiser, 25th August)

Gardien Tip: Never under-estimate the weight of items which can be stolen from around your house. Use property marking on valuable items to facilitate return by the Police. See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

A third of house raids are sneak-ins

2011-08-24T01:33:00.000-07:00

A THIRD of house burglaries in Doncaster are the work of sneak thieves and the continuing good weather has prompted police to issue a fresh crime prevention warning.

With many people spending time in the garden or popping round to see friends over the Bank Holiday weekend, detectives fear there will be more crime reports to handle by the end of August.
South Yorkshire Police are reminding residents not to leave their doors and windows unlocked and risk becoming a victim of a sneak-in burglary.
If windows and doors are left unlocked, criminals on the lookout for an easy opportunity can slip in and out of people’s homes, taking valuables and personal possessions.
Det Insp Steve Whittaker said: “It only takes a few seconds for thieves to get away with valuable items, and sometimes they may even take your car if keys are left on show.
“I want to remind people to always ensure that windows and doors are locked as a third of all home burglaries in Doncaster are down to ‘sneak in’ burglaries.
“We need the public to help us prevent these types of burglaries by always keeping keys and valuables out of sight, and even if you are only in the garden ensuring that windows and doors are not left open. “We will do everything we can to catch and prosecute criminals who are caught committing this type of offence.”
To keep homes and valuables safe, always keep doors and windows locked, even if you are only in the garden or outside the house, he said.
Always put keys out of sight and out of reach from windows and doors. Don’t leave keys in doors where they could be grabbed through the letter box.
Remove valuables from sight. Don’t leave valuables on show near windows and doors. Keep vehicles and garages locked at all times.
If you see anything suspicious, such as people going up and down drives report it to the police immediately

(Reproduced from The Star, 23rd August 2011)

Gardien Tip: Make it as difficult as possible for unwanted visitors to enter your garden. Also use property marking to enable easy retrieval of any items which might be stolen. Plenty of advice and products available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Garden Security - The Irish View

2011-08-19T02:33:00.000-07:00

By Sergeant Ian O'callaghan, Crime Prevention Officer for Cork West Garda Division.
WHEN we think of crime prevention and how we can secure our homes we often forget to consider our gardens and everything in them.
Your garden contains valuable possessions that thieves can easily sell. Thieves can also use implements found in the garden to break into your home.
By taking some simple precautions you can reduce the risk of being burgled, increase the security of your home and garden, and make life more difficult for any would be intruders.
Your perimeter/boundary is your first line of defence. This includes your walls, fences, gates and hedges.
Walls fences and gates in the rear garden should be at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) high. It is often a good idea to fix a trellis to the top as it provides an extra barrier to negotiate and is also likely to break if climbed, creating noise and attracting attention regardless how energetic the thief is.
Suitable thorny/prickly climbers could be grown through the trellis as an extra deterrant.
Ensure that side gates or doors are robust and locked with good quality padlocks or deadlocks and that they cannot be lifted off their hinges. Regularly check for damage or weakness and repair as necessary.
The height of the gate/door should complement the height of the walls.
A barrier consisting of a dense prickly hedge running along your perimeter/boundary is well worth considering. Most would-be intruders will be deterred from seeking entry through this route. There are many plants suitable for such a role. The following list, that I have researched, is not exhaustive and is offered as a guide only - you should discuss with a horticultural expert at your garden centre or nursery. Holly, Berberis, Firethorn, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Pernettya Climbing Rambling or Shrub Roses.
Sheds garages and outhouses should be kept closed and locked when not in use. They should all be kept in good condition — windows and doors are particularly vulnerable and prone to damage. You should consider the following - Fit metal grilles or strong mesh to the windows and a net curtain inside to prevent a person seeing in.
Doors should be secured with mortice deadbolts or good security quality closed shackled padlocks, as appropriate. If using a padlock ensure that the hasp and staple are fitted securely and bolted through the door with concealed screws/bolts eg. one-way screws.
Connect your shed to your home intruder alarm system, if you have one installed.
Machinery tools and implements are attractive to thieves for two reasons: (1) some are valuable and can easily be sold on and (2) some can assist in actually breaking into your home.
Don't leave ladders lying around the garden - secure them to a wall or other solid object.
Don't leave garden tools eg. spades, forks etc. lying around - they too can be used to break into your home.
Lock away in your garage or shed valuable machinery such as lawn mowers, shredders, power washers, bikes etc. It is also a good idea to further secure these items within the garage or shed eg. by individual chaining to the wall or by intertwined chaining of them all to each other etc.
Other tools eg. hammers, screwdrivers etc. should be kept in a secure lockable container within your garage/shed, preferably anchored to the wall/floor.
Consider property marking, in particular, valuable items such as lawnmowers and so on. As with property inside your home take photographs for record purposes and ease of identification.
Garden furniture and ornaments casn be expensive to buy. This makes them attractive to thieves.
Where possible secure furniture and ornaments to the ground or a solid wall etc .
Take photos and make notes of all scratches indentations and defects.
Landscaping and garden maintenance are important aspects of garden security. A neglected poorly maintained overgrown garden conveys a message that the owner may be absent or doesn't care whereas a well maintained and properly landscaped garden evokes a sense of territoriality and can enhance access control and surveillance opportunities.
If going away for a prolonged period ensure your grass is cut during your absence. Keep shrubs hedges and large plants pruned and cut back so as not to afford cover for thieves and also allow better surveillance by you and/or your neighbours.
Most gardens are dark at night allowing would-be thieves the opportunity to hide easily. Fit exterior lights that have sensors attached (either continuous dusk till dawn or those triggered by motion detectors).
Household insurance policies should be checked with your insurer to determine whether they cover theft and/or damage to garden machinery tools, other equipment and garden ornaments etc. You should also check if there are any minimum security standards required and if there are any particular restrictions applying.

(Reproduced from Corkman.ie 18th Aug 2011)

Gardien Tip: Excellent advice which is obviously applicable wherever you live. The products you need to help prevent problems can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Garden theft warning

2011-08-03T04:37:00.000-07:00

A WARNING has been issued to Downham (Norfolk) homeowners following a spate of garden thefts.

In the past month, seven outdoor areas have been targeted and items which have been taken include two topiary trees, a large concrete flower pot, four garden lanterns, 18 conifers and a number of solar lights.
Insp Mick Bates said: “Thefts of equipment and ornaments from gardens can be upsetting for those who have put time and effort into making their gardens a nice place to spend their time.
“Where possible, valuable items should be brought in or stored in a secure shed when not in use. If you do leave things outside, secure them in position or fill with heavy gravel to prevent easy carrying.”
Other security advice includes ensuring your fences and gates are in good repair, where possible, install security lighting, keep gardens cut back and put down gravel on paths and driveways.
If you witness anyone acting suspiciously in gardens or around properties during the day or after dark call police on 999, if you believe a crime is in progress or 0845 4564567.
For further information or advice contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team on 0845 4564567 or visit www.norfolk.police.uk

(Reproduced from Lynn News 3rd August 2011)

Gardien Tip: Garden Crime continues to cause a great deal of upset for the victims - plenty of advice and garden security products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Turf is stolen from garden

2011-08-02T12:10:00.000-07:00

A PATCH of artificial turf was stolen from a back garden.

The theft of the turf happened at a property in Merlin Way, Hartlepool sometime between 9pm on Friday, July 29 and 10am on Saturday, July 30.
The thieves are believed to have entered the back garden, lifted a children’s playhouse, a large slide and children’s toys off the turf before removing the fastenings and rolling it up.
The stolen turf is three metres by four metres and has a rubber backing.
Police are appealing for any information which may help them in tracking down the thieves.
Anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously who may have had a pick-up truck or flat bed truck to transport the turf is asked to call PC Lorene Haworth on (01642) 302178.
Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from Peterlee Mail, 2nd August 2011)

Gardien Tip: Absolutely nothing is sacred, and everything costs money. The advice is to make it as difficult as possible for anyone to enter your garden uninvited - see the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/gates-security.aspx

Nail down the garden furniture as thieves eye metal

2011-07-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

Garden furniture, children’s play equipment, fridges and shopping trolleys are among unlikely items being stolen in Yorkshire as metal prices soar while the economy stutters.

The region’s police forces have set up specialist investigation teams after recording a sharp rise in metal thefts in recent months.
Railways have been a particularly common target for metal thieves, and figures released today reveal that crimes on the network in Yorkshire and the North East have risen by more than 73 per cent.
But as patrols of railways have increased, officers say criminals have turned their attention to homes and gardens where metal items are kept on display.
Inspector Jason Booth, who leads neighbourhood policing teams in the Mosborough and Woodhouse areas of Sheffield, said: “I am noticing a big increase in thefts we wouldn’t ordinarily see.
“Garden furniture, barbecues, fridges, dishwashers and children’s trampolines are being stolen from gardens and these are staying under the radar because they are being classed as ‘other theft’, but they are all metal.
“It really frustrates me that people think they can just go on to somebody’s property and help themselves to it.”
West Yorkshire Police recorded more than 600 metal thefts in March alone. It said the total value of items reported stolen this year had already risen well above £1m.
Chief Superintendent Bill Hotchkiss, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “South Yorkshire has seen a 38 per cent increase in metal theft offences compared to the same period last year and this is a trend which is mirrored in our neighbouring forces and nationally.
“In January this year our figures were around 254 offences per month and they are now averaging around 450 offences.”
British Transport Police, which will target metal and cable thieves in a day of action today, said cases in Yorkshire and the North East rose by more than 73 per cent last year.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Pacey said the problem was “one of the biggest challenges we face”.
“It represents a direct attack on people and communities who rely on rail travel to go about their daily business,” he added.
Transport Minister Norman Baker said: “It is essential we get to grips with this problem because cable thefts are becoming more and more numerous and audacious – for example, gangs of thieves have even dressed up as official workers to get access to sites so they can steal cable and equipment.
“Stealing railway cable is selfish and dangerous.”
The trend has followed a sharp increase in metal prices internationally. The price of copper rose from a low of just below £3,000 per tonne in late 2008 to a peak of about £10,000 per tonne earlier this year.
The Yorkshire Post revealed in January that repairing buildings and replacing grate covers following raids by metal thieves had cost Yorkshire councils at least £2.3m in five years.
Police have worked with councils, fire crews, the Environment Agency, the Inland Revenue, utility companies and traders in an attempt to tackle the problem.
Operations in North Yorkshire have included ensuring all scrap metal dealers in Scarborough have a dedicated police officer with whom to liaise.
Similar campaigns have been organised by West Yorkshire Police and Humberside Police.

(Reproduced from The Yorkshire Post, 30th July 2011)

Gardien Tip: Put away all those things which can be safelystored and use relatively cheap alarms to protect higher value items. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-alarms.aspx

Plants stolen in Falmouth hours before garden judges' visit

2011-07-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

A THIEF who wrecked a floral display on Penmere Station in Falmouth just a day before judges for the town's garden competition were due to arrive has been condemned.

A large planter on the platform was stripped of every single marigold some time during Thursday night – but the theft was not discovered until Friday afternoon, leaving volunteers from the Friends of Penmere Station with only hours to replace the flowers before the judges appeared.

Janet Peacock, who with her husband David found the empty planter, said: "We just went up after lunch on Friday to pick up any litter and discovered it.
"They must have come prepared, as we searched everywhere for the plants thinking they'd been thrown away, but they were nowhere to be seen. They'd been dug up from the planter quite carefully and taken away.
"We did our best by re- jigging the plants and using whatever we had at our disposal to make the planter look good for the judges."
Steve Lloyd, honorary chairman of the Friends, said he was sure the plants were stolen.
"It wasn't children just throwing them around; they had been dug up and stolen," he said. "Someone had actually gone up to steal to order.
"It's not very nice to think that someone did that and took them away.
"I could understand it more if it was kids just throwing them around. Stealing is much worse than vandalism.
"I do feel a bit bitter knowing they've been stolen by an adult. So many people use the station and there are trains every half-hour so they must have gone up there some time between the last train on Thursday and the first one on Friday.
"It's so sad, because the planter did look fantastic."
Mr and Mrs Peacock worked wonders, however, and had the planter redesigned when the judges arrived on Saturday.
"It did look OK for the judges and we're still waiting to hear how we did in the competition," said Mr Lloyd.
With the judging over, Mr and Mrs Peacock decided to find new plants to replace the stolen marigolds, and while travelling on a bus were offered a supply by a man who lives near the station.
The Friends of Penmere Station have been tending to the platform and gardens for 18 years and during that time have won several awards for their efforts.

(Reproduced from ThisIsCornwall, 28th July 2011)

Gardien Tip: The only real answer here is CCTV but we appreciate that it is impossible to cover every square metre of every place in town. Sadly, nothing surprises any more.

Suspected stolen garden items on display in Morecambe

2011-07-19T05:35:00.000-07:00

POLICE are offering victims the chance to reclaim their stolen property from an 'Aladdin's Cave' of items recovered during a raid. The statues, ornaments, plant pots, plinths, benches and other garden items were seized following the execution of a theft warrant at Mellishaw caravan park in Morecambe last week.
The operation was carried out following an investigation into the theft of a golden boy statue, which has since been returned to its owner.
Officers have now released photos of items confiscated during the raid in the hope that they may be recognised by those who rightfully own them.
PC Ben Hanley, Lancaster Police, said: "If someone recognises an item that they believe to be theirs then they should get in touch with us and we will seek proof that it is theirs before it is returned.
"It is a good idea for people who have valuable items in their gardens to take photos of them and also mark them with their postcode so if they are unfortunately stolen but then recovered, officers have a way of finding out who owns them."
If you recognise an item contact PC Hanley on 0845 15 25 35 45.

Follow the link below to view the items:
http://www.thewestmorlandgazette.co.uk/photos/july_2011/aladdins_cave/

(Reproduced from the Westmorland Gazette, 18th July 2011)

Gardien Tip: A welcome change to see goods being returned. Property marking enables rapid return of stolen items to their rightful owners. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx

Dales summer crime crackdown

2011-07-06T00:24:00.000-07:00

PEOPLE are being asked to support a campaign against summer crime designed to maintain the Derbyshire Dales’ status as one of the safest places in England.

Operation Rascal is being promoted by the Safer Derbyshire Dales Community Safety Partnership with the aim of keeping burglaries at the current low rate.
The partnership, which includes Derbyshire Dales District Council, the police and the county council, is helping prevent summer shed burglaries by selling discounted shed alarms at just £4 a time at police stations throughout the Dales.
Insp. Bryan Hall, who is in charge of policing in the Derbyshire Dales, said: “In the summer months wooden sheds can become a target for thieves and we want local people to help themselves to protect expensive items such as mountain bikes, motorbikes, golf clubs, DIY power tools, lawn mowers and other garden equipment.
“The shed alarms made available as part of Operation Rascal are a great deterrent. They usually retail at around £8 but we are selling them for just £4 thanks to a generous subsidy by the district partnership.”
Dales resident Alison Young said she was glad she fitted a shed alarm at her home in Matlock. “A few weeks ago someone started to prise open the shed door but obviously noticed the alarm and gave up,” she said.
“The discounted alarms are a great idea and I’d recommend other people taking advantage of the £4 discounted cost. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.”
Meanwhile, police report that an alarm was a deterrent when thieves targeted a shed in Green Lane, Ashbourne, on 5 July. A resident was woken up in the early hours by the shed alarm and after checking the garden noticed the lock on the shed had been tampered with.
Police believe the noise from the alarm and a security light in the garden disturbed the offender, who left empty handed.
Derbyshire Dales District Council Leader Councillor Lewis Rose OBE, who is also Chairman of the Safer Derbyshire Dales Community Safety Partnership said: “The Derbyshire Dales is among the safest places in England. In fact, Government figures continue to show that only the Isles of Scilly have a lower burglary rate, but we cannot afford to be complacent.
“This excellent campaign is the latest in a series of partnership initiatives that helps maintain the Derbyshire Dales as one of the safest places to live, work and visit in the whole of the UK.”
Also available at Enquiry Offices are door chimes at just £1 a time. In addition to fitting a shed alarm, local people are urged to keep their sheds safe by following these simple suggestions:

• Protect the boundary and access of your garden with fences, walls and lockable gates.
• Locate your shed in your garden so you can clearly see the door and window of the shed from your house.
• Use a good quality padlock/hasp or mortice lock on the door. If using a hasp, ensure the screws are covered and cannot be accessed by a screw driver.
• Ensure the hinges cannot be easily removed.
• Make sure the doors and panels of the shed are strong enough not to be kicked in or forced.
• Cover the windows and fit Perspex or laminated glass which will offer good protection.
• Cover the shed with a security light.
• Use a ground or wall anchor to secure your bike or other valuables in the shed.
• Lock valuables together to prevent them being easily removed.
• Visibly and permanently mark your property. It helps identify it as yours and is less desirable for a thief.

(Reproduced from Bakewell Today, 5th July)

Gardien Tip: The above is excellent advice, which is supported with further advice and quality security products at www.garden-security.co.uk

Garden theft rise - police warning

2011-07-04T04:40:00.000-07:00

Wetherby’s police chief is urging people to be extra vigilant over possessions being left in gardens over the summer, after an increase in garden thefts.

More than 32 incidents have been reported over the last two months leading Inspector Marcus Griffiths to urge householders to make sure their belongings are secure.
“I would encourage people who leave things in their garden such as garden furniture and barbecue equipment or anything valuable to store them away and make sure that it is not in view,” Insp Griffiths said.
“We have seen an increase in thefts from gardens recently and we encourage everyone to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
“We would ask members of the public to ask and question people if they are not aware of any building work in the area.”
The appeal follows a number of incidents at the weekend when three bikes were stolen from the front garden of a house on Taylor Lane, Barwick-in-Elmet between 9 and 9.30pm last Friday.
One of the bikes was later found dumped nearby, however two are still missing.
The two missing bikes are described as mountain bikes, one black and one pink and white.

(Reproduced from Wetherby News, 4th July 2011)

Gardien Tip: Plenty of free advice and products to help minimise garden crime are to be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Bronze deer statues stolen from Essex garden

2011-06-28T11:09:00.000-07:00

POLICE are appealing for information and witnesses following the theft of ornamental statues in Little Dunmow.Between 6pm on June 6 and 1pm on June 7 suspects stole two bronze statues of deer from a garden in Grange Lane. The estimated total value of the statues is in the low four figures.
Anyone with information about this crime to contact Dunmow station, where the investigating officer is Pc Graeme Gordon, on 0300 3334444, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from Dunmow Broadcast and Recorder June 28th)

Gardien Tip: Advice about protecting Garden Antiques and Statuary can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

£5,000 worth of fishing equipment stolen

2011-06-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information following the theft of £5,000 worth of fishing equipment from a shed in Redditch.
It happened between 8pm on Wednesday, June 22 and 10.50am on Thursday, June 23 in Yardley Close in the Winyates area.
It is possible that the offenders may try to sell on the fishing equipment and therefore police are eager to hear from anyone who may have been offered fishing equipment for sale.
Peter Aston, crime risk advisor, said: “Shed owners should ensure they have sufficient security in place to prevent their belongings from being stolen.
“A garden crime leaflet called Tips to Nip Garden Crime in the Bud is available from police stations and garden centres in the West Mercia are or can be downloaded from the force's website at www.westmercia.police.uk.”
Anyone with information can call 0300 333 3000, quoting incident reference 198-S-230611, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from the Redditch Advertiser, 27th June 2011)

Gardien Tip: The garden shed is the number one target in our gardens - see our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

0300 333

Raiders take £900 garden fountain

2011-06-23T03:33:00.000-07:00

POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a lead garden fountain was stolen from a house in Burnham Market.

Raiders entered the back garden of an address on Overy Road sometime between 5pm on Wednesday June 8 and 9am on Thursday June 9.
Details of the incident were only made public yesterday.
An ornamental lead fountain, believed to be worth around £900, was stolen in the incident.
Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area between the times stated, or who may have been offered the item for sale since then.
Anyone with information on the theft of the garden fountain is asked to contact PCSO Owen James of Norfolk Police on 0845 4564567 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from Lynn News 22nd June 2011)

Gardien Tip: See our advice on protecting garden valuables at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

Hedon (Hull) Crime Prevention Event - Saturday 26th June

2011-06-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

Hedon neighbourhood officers are holding a crime prevention day in the Co-Op car park on Hull Road, Hedon on Saturday 25 June 2011 with a specific focus on shed, garage and garden security.
Between 1000hrs and 1500hrs on Saturday 25 June 2011 the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be working in the car park offering crime prevention literature and advice to shoppers.

The team will also be offering cycle post coding free of charge. This helps police trace stolen cycle and increase the likelihood of these cycles being returned to their owners.

PCSO Janice Wilcock said: "Events like this are a fantastic opportunity for the public to come and see their local policing team in a convenient and relaxed environment. We are looking forward to speaking to lots of the local community about their neighbourhoods and offering crime prevention to help avoid them becoming victims of crime.

"We have chosen shed, garage and garden security as traditionally this time of the year crimes from these places increase as people invest in new gardening and DIY tools as well as leisure equipment before storing them in outbuildings.

"However the security of gardens and the buildings in them are forgotten about while people focus on ensuring their homes are safe which is understandable. However by making a few modifications to sheds and garages they can be made more secure."

"At this event we hope to educate people in methods of deterring thieves from targeting property in gardens. These methods can include decreasing the levels of cover by installing lights, increasing the time taken to gain entry through more secure locks or by increasing the chance of detection through property marking or alarms.

"The aim ultimately is working with the community of Hedon in order to prevent crimes from happening in the area through the use of crime prevention techniques and this event will help to achieve this."

At the event people can also find out about home and vehicle crime prevention.

If you would like to attend either Crime Prevention Day, or would like further advice on making your gardens safer this summer and also have your cycle post coded please come along to Co-Op car park on Hull Road in Hedon, between 1000hrs and 150hrs on Saturday 25 June 2011

(Reproduced from aboutmyarea.co.uk 10th June 2011)

Gardien Tip: All the products required to help minimise shed, garage and garden security can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk and see in particular the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

‘Devastation’ as Springwood garden is raided (King's Lynn)

2011-06-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

A rose named after a retired Lynn hospital porter was stolen from his own garden at the weekend.
A bush featuring the bloom was one of dozens of plants to be taken as thieves ransacked the garden of David and Hilda Moulton at their home on the Springwood estate during the early hours of Saturday.
Police have confirmed they are investigating the theft, which has devastated the couple.
Mrs Moulton told the Lynn News she could not describe what she thought of those responsible.
“We’re devastated. They have just taken the lot. You can see where they have just pulled them up”, she said.
“He doesn’t want to go out there at the moment.”
A keen gardener, Mr Moulton was presented with the rose, which has since been named Moulton’s Marvel, by colleagues at Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital to mark his 65th birthday last October.
But the blooms were stolen, together with 26 goldcrest plants and a hanging basket sometime between 1am and 7.45am on Saturday.
A neighbour had been walking his dog at around 1am after finishing work and saw that the garden was still intact.
And Mrs Moulton, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis which means she has difficulty sleeping, said she had wondered whether the incident would have happened if she was up.
She said: “The night before this happened I spent about two-and-a half hours reading. Perhaps the light would have been on and they wouldn’t have done it. I don’t know.”
She added that officers had said it was likely a vehicle had been left nearby to take the plants away.
The house runs alongside a footpath which is regularly used by pedestrians making their way to and from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
Mrs Moulton said passers-by had regularly commented to her husband on how attractive the garden looked and many had also condemned the thieves during the last few days.
Anyone with information about the incident should ring police on 0845 4564567.

(Reproduced from the Lynn News, 6th June)

Gardien Tip: There is a wide variety of motion activated alarms and lighting available - careful positioning to avoid triggering by passers-by or animals can offer a simple, cost-effective level of security. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/ for details.

Uttlesford (Essex) residents urged to lock up their gardening equipment following spate of shed burglaries

2011-05-18T02:29:00.000-07:00

POLICE are urging residents in Uttlesford to secure their gardening equipment following a number of shed burglaries.
Between 8pm on April 29 and 10am on May 1 suspects broke into sheds and outbuildings in Hatfield Broad Oak and stole items totalling £7,500.
The goods taken includes two Hayter petrol lawn mowers, gym equipment, a Drover men’s mountain bike, and a television.
Officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed or has information about these crimes to contact Dunmow police station on 0300 333 4444, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
• Uttlesford district crime reduction advisor Peter Caulfield has a few top tips for keeping garden equipment and sheds safe from thieves.
“I would urge everyone to make a note of all their gardening equipment, recording the make, model and serial number,” he said.
“We also recommend that you mark all your equipment in a highly visible manner, such as scratching or engraving or using a permanent security marker, showing your postcode and house number or name. This makes it less attractive to thieves as the equipment is then much harder to sell on the black market.
“Also, do securely lock your shed, with bolts that cannot be prised off. Larger tools and items such as bikes and lawn mowers should ideally be chained to a shed shackle on the wall, or to an ‘Eye’ type anchor fix into the concrete floor inside the shed.”
Shed doors can be further secured with shed alarms and a ‘shed bar’ lock. Approved security products can be seen on web sites soldsecure.com or securedbydesign.com.
“Please don’t advertise your gardening equipment to passers by. If you keep your tools in your garage or a shed, don’t leave the door open for long periods for everyone to see,” added Mr Caulfield.
“In addition, if you’ve just bought some new gardening equipment, don’t put the box out for collection at the roadside: please turn the box inside out or break it down so it fits inside the bag or bin, protecting your privacy.”
There are also plenty of ways of increasing the security of your back gardens, particularly through using what the experts call “defensive planting”.
Mr Caulfield explains: “In everyday language, ‘defensive planting’ means putting prickly shrubs in areas of your garden where they can deter would-be thieves. So, if your garden borders public areas consider planting prickly bushes in that area.”
Residents should also consider topping fences with trellis that will collapse on the weight of someone climbing it, or alternately adding a spiky topping to fences, with relevant warning signs affixed to the fence.
For further information on keeping your shed and garden secure contact Mr Caulfield on 0300 333 4444

(Reproduced from Dunmow Broadcast, May 18th)

Gardien Tip: All the products mentioned in the above article (and more) are available from http://www.garden-security.co.uk/ plus a comprehensive article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Warning after spate of thefts

2011-05-17T00:15:00.000-07:00

RESIDENTS have been warned to keep their gardens secure following an ‘unusual’ spate of thefts of ornaments, plants and equipment across West Suffolk. Items were snatched from 19 gardens in the Forest Heath, St Edmundsbury and Mid Suffolk districts between April 22 and May 6.
They include bird baths, statues, sun dials, a lawnmower, lights and plants – with most reported stolen overnight.
Police have now reminded residents to be vigilant and take extra precautions in the wake of the crimes.
Det Chief Insp Louisa Pepper said: “Such an amount in a fortnight is unusual and it is thought that possibly some of these items have been stolen to sell on.
“Our advice is not to leave anything of value unattended in your garden.
“Investing in lighting and CCTV and keeping your garden and boundaries tidy can discourage thieves.
“Some of the items may not have been taken had they been locked away after use.”
She noted that a number of the ornaments were ‘distinctive’ including a Virgin Mary Statue taken from a garden in Red Lodge on April 29, a metal brazier log burner from Westhorpe on April 22 and a grey stone frog from Stowmarket between April 29 to 30.
Other items taken included nine statues from Hopton, from May 4 to 5, a sun dial and animal statues from Walsham-le-Willows between April 30 to May 1 as well as three rose bushes and 15 solar lights from Beck Row, from May 4 to 5.
Anyone who may be offered the items for sale in ‘unusual circumstances’ or at a fete or car boot sale or has information about the incidents should contact the police on (01473) 613500

(Reproduced from the Bury Free Press 16th May 2011)

Gardien Tip: Plenty of advice re garden security and products to minimise the risk of theft can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Garden ornament theft spate prompts Newcastle warning

2011-05-15T04:36:00.000-07:00

A stone bench was among the items stolen Police have warned people to ensure their garden ornaments are photographed and marked after a series of thefts in the Newcastle area.
Since the beginning of April there have been about 10 incidents where such items - often unusual, large and heavy - have been taken.
The Walbottle, Callerton and Lemington areas have been targeted.
Stolen items include a stone bench, bird baths, garden planters, stone horses heads, and 6ft bronze lamp.
Police have said that it was likely those responsible had used a vehicle, and it was possible that the thefts were linked.
A Northumbria Police spokesman added: "The items are unusual and some are difficult to move, with most being stolen overnight.
"Some are very rare with only a few made, however, many are quite readily available to buy so even if we do recover some of the stolen property it may be difficult to return them to their rightful owners.
"I'd advise people to be wary about decorating their garden with expensive items.
"However, if residents do have items such as this which they want to keep in their garden, they should take photographs of it and ensure it is marked with their postcode so that if it is stolen and then recovered, we can return it."

(Reproduced from BBC News 14th May 2011)

Gardien Tip: See our advice re the securing of Outdoor Items at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

Police chief will target metal thefts

2011-05-07T03:11:00.000-07:00

A TOP female police officer appointed to tackle high-profile offenders has burglaries and metal thefts high on her list of priorities.
Detective Inspector Lyn Peart has moved into the role at Peterlee CID after her predecessor Neil Edgar took up a similar position in Bishop Auckland.
Det Insp Peart, who has 14 years policing experience and was the first female advisor at Durham’s armed police unit in 2000, said she aims to target scrap thieves who are taking items like bikes and are even resorting to stealing child’s swings from gardens.
She said: “I hope to have a big impact on the reduction and detection of crime and to ensure that victims feel confident in the way they have been dealt with and are satisfied with the service they have been given.”
The 35-year-old has already been relishing her first three weeks in the role.
She said: “It’s a busy area.
“There are a lot of good people that we need to serve and make sure the local issues they have got are tackled, from not only a core policing point of view, but also from a crime investigation viewpoint.”
Det Insp Peart is in charge of CID, crime teams and prisoner handling teams.
She said: “Our priorities for the Peterlee area are burglaries, vehicle crime and metal thefts.
“We have days of action planned around all of these.”
In the coming weeks, the police are planning operations targeting metal thefts, as well as looking at ways of preventing the offences.
Det Insp Peart said: “We will be looking at crime prevention, making sure that people secure items, whether they are bikes or items from renovations.
“We are getting more and more reports of scrap collectors coming around and taking these without permission.
“We need to have an education phase and also make it tough for people taking these.
“We are also looking at scrap merchants themselves, who are making a business for thieves taking metal in.
“It’s a big country-wide problem because of the price of metal. It makes it so much easier to take a little girl’s bike from the garden or a swing.
“It’s such a big impact on everybody.”

(Reproduced from Hartlepool Mail, May 7th )

Gardien Tip: See our article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm. See our general garden security advice to help protect items in the garden.

Keep your gardens secure

2011-05-04T01:47:00.000-07:00

AS THE SUN continues to shine, one Droitwich gardener has lent her support to a West Mercia Police campaign to help reduce garden crime.
Malley Terry, who opens her garden to the public every year for charity, has welcomed the new drive by South Worcestershire Police to stamp out the menace.
The scheme aims to raise awareness of the steps people can take to protect their gardens, sheds and allotments.
Around 1,500 shed burglaries take place every year within West Mercia, while garden equipment that has not been secured properly or has been left out could be used to break into a house.
South Worcestershire’s crime reduction manager, Mike Stephenson and Sgt Dave Knight joined Mrs Terry in her garden in Alexander Avenue to formally launch the new scheme.
Mr Stephenson said: “Although many people take steps to protect their homes and the property inside them, valuable equipment is often left in unsecured sheds, providing easy pickings for opportunist thieves.
“Expensive items such as power tools, mowers, garden tools, bicycles and golf clubs should not be stored in sheds.
“If possible, store them in your house or garage.
“Easy, simple, steps can be taken by everyone to help reduce garden crime and keep their belongings safe throughout the year.
“People love beautiful gardens, people flock to Mrs Terry’s garden every year, but thieves love insecure gardens and we need to work together to keep garden crime low and our gardens places we can relax safely throughout the summer,” he added.
For more on garden and shed security, visit the force’s website: http://www.westmercia.police.uk/.

(Reproduced from The Droitwich Standard, 3rd May 2011)

Gardien Tip: Extend the above sound advice by reading our comprehensive article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Sunshine crime spree police warning

2011-05-03T01:35:00.000-07:00

HOT Bank Holiday weather has brought a crime wave in Doncaster’s gardens, police have warned.
Officers responsible for policing the borough have seen a spike in the number of thefts from outside homes as residents get out on their lawns and patios.
The rise in reports has prompted an appeal for residents to be vigilant and keep their property secure.
A spokesman said the last few weeks had seen an increase in thefts of items such as garden furniture, hanging baskets and ornaments.
Sgt Jez Fitzgibbons said: “We have had a number of thefts reported over the last week, where items have been stolen from gardens.
“The people committing these thefts will undoubtedly be opportunistic thieves who pass by and see something they like or can sell.
“We need the public to help us prevent these types of thefts and ensure everybody can continue enjoying the sunshine.”
Police says they want to remind residents to ensure their property is secure, by locking items away in a shed or garage when they are not in use, and securing hanging baskets to walls.
The current heatwave started two weeks ago and has seen many residents taking to their gardens.
In Doncaster, it has seen families heading out to the borough’s parks to take in the weather.
Forecasters are expecting more sunshine for Doncaster over the Bank Holiday weekend, although temperatures were expected to be lower than those residents enjoyed over Easter, with temperatures of 16C today and 15C tomorrow and Sunday.
Police are offering advice on keeping the current wave of thieves out.
For more information on how to keep your home secure, residents are being advised to speak to officers from their Safer Neighbourhood Team.
Log onto www.southyorks.police.uk and enter your postcode or call 0114 2202020 for details of your local team.

(Reproduced from The Star 30th April 2011)

Gardien Tip: Lock items away in sheds as suggested above but make sure the shed itself is secure. See our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Crime stricken allotment holders fight back

2011-04-27T01:44:00.000-07:00

They will be featured on Crimewatch's roadshow programme in an effort to halt the vandalism at their plots in Lincoln

Vandalism at allotments in Lincoln has become so bad that the BBC's Crimewatch Roadshow programme has been mobilised in to help.
A spate of incidents at the Boultham allotments in Lincoln has led to the crime-fighting programme filming there, the Lincolnshire Echo reports.
In the latest attacks in February, windows were smashed and human waste left inside the tea room. Vandals urinated in water bottles.
Allotment holders were upset by the damage and have since been in talks with the the local authority in Lincoln to improve security.
Now, Crimewatch UK's roadshow is joining the cause to highlight the issue and will be filming in the area in the next couple of months. Presenters Rav Wilding and Ginny Buckley will host a series of live morning shows in June and July, including the allotments.
Lincolnshire Police spokesman James Newall told the Echo: "We are working with the Crimewatch Roadshow, which will be filming in the next month or so, to put together a number of packages that will go into their daytime programme.
"It's different to the evening show in the sense they do not focus on serious crime. It's more about day-to-day issues and things that affect our community."
He said the issues with the allotments is "a prime example of how low-level crime can really affect people's lives."
The allotments have been the target of vandalism over the last year, and people who spend hours tending their patches have had their windows smashed, sheds damaged and panes of glass in greenhouses broken.
Councillor Alister Williams, county council member for Lincoln North, hopes the Crimewatch team's visit to the site, off Boultham Park Road in Lincoln, will complement his education initiatives with young people.
He said: "The allotment-holders feel that certain generations misunderstand allotments and, when they get bored, they go and trash things. Some of the things the offenders did were disgusting and that goes beyond boredom to vandalism.
"One of the things we want to do is work with the schools so the allotment-holders can explain themselves to young people so they understand that the allotments are an extension of people's homes.
"People down there were devastated when it happened and the last time it was just awful."
Fred Hyde, who has had an allotment at the site for six years, said: "It's about trying to educate people. Trashing an allotment and our tea room has an effect on us all. They left glass in the fruit and the sugar we use for making tea, and they urinated in our water bottles.
"It's not just an allotment, it's a community. The world is not a very good place at times, but when you come down to the allotments, all the bad stuff is left outside." He said he hopes Crimewatch will get the message across.

(Reproduced from guardian.co.uk 26th April 2011)

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Town gardener helps highlight police campaign (Droitwich)

2011-04-26T02:14:00.000-07:00

A DROITWICH gardener is supporting a West Mercia Police campaign to help reduce garden crime as the weather ‘hots’ up. Malley Terry, who annually opens her Droitwich garden to the public, welcomed South Worcestershire’s crime reduction manager, Mike Stephenson, and Sgt Dave Knight to her beautiful display in Alexander Avenue as they begin to raise awareness of steps people can take to protect their gardens, sheds and allotments.
Mike Stephenson said: “Although many people take steps to protect their homes and the property inside them, valuable equipment is often left in unsecured sheds, providing easy pickings for opportunist thieves.
“Expensive items such as power tools, mowers, garden tools, bicycles and golf clubs should not be stored in sheds. If possible, store them in your house or garage.
“Easy, simple, steps can be taken by everyone to help reduce garden crime and keep their belongings safe throughout the year.
“People love beautiful gardens, people flock to Mrs Terry’s garden every year, but thieves love insecure gardens and we need to work together to keep garden crime low and our gardens places we can relax safely throughout the summer.”
Around 1500 shed burglaries take place every year within West Mercia. In addition, garden equipment that has not been secured properly or has been left out could be used to break into a house.
More information on garden and shed security can be found on the force website at www.westmercia.police.uk

(Reproduced from Droitwich Spa Advertiser 21st April)

Gardien Tip: See our article re Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Nip Garden Crime in the Bud! - Crime Prevention

2011-04-26T02:02:00.000-07:00

West Mercia Police is urging green-fingered residents to help the force ‘weed out’ garden crime by reviewing and improving their garden, shed and allotment security.
Although many people take steps to protect their homes and the property inside them, they leave valuable equipment in gardens and unsecured sheds, providing easy pickings for opportunist thieves. Around 1500 shed burglaries take place every year within West Mercia, which highlights the importance of storing valuable items securely.
Top tips for a safer garden:

• Gates, fences and walls should be kept in good repair

• Grow prickly plants close to windows, fences, boundary walls and drainpipes

• Don’t leave expensive equipment like garden tools, mowers, mountain bikes and power tools in the shed

• If you have nowhere else to store valuable equipment, take measures to secure your shed

• Don’t leave ladders and tools lying around in your garden – these could be used to break into your home

• Mark your garden tools and equipment with your postcode.

For more garden, shed and allotment security advice, contact your local policing team on 0300 333 3000.

Alternatively, visit the force website (www.westmercia.police.uk) where you can also download a copy of the force’s ‘Stop – all valuables have been removed’ poster to display on your shed. Don’t forget to remove any valuables first though!

(Reproduced from Loggerheads Community Information Shop, 25th April 2011)

Gardien Tip: All the above is good advice. More info and garden security products can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Thornbury police tackle rural crime

2011-04-22T03:44:00.000-07:00

POLICE have been out in and around Thornbury to help tackle rural crime. On Monday, April 18 members of the Thornbury Neighbourhood Policing Team held a day of action, due to the recent thefts of agricultural equipment, quad bikes, garden machinery and scrap metal.
During the day the team, led by Acting Police Sargent (APS) Neil Whyman, stopped vehicles that fitted the profile of vehicles used in offences or vehicles from locations which have been targeted by thieves.
As part of the operation officers used an Automatic Number Plate Recognition camera and screened 2,897 vehicles, and of that number 68 vehicles were stopped for routine checks, crime prevention advice and vehicle defects.
All motorists were given a leaflet asking them to mark their property with their postcode to deter criminals and to register it at www.immobilise.com APS Whyman said: "This was a successful operation, with many motorists expressing how pleased they were to be stopped and that this was very welcome.
"One motorist stopped had just replaced equipment after being stolen in another area, they expressed how good it was to see the police being pro-active, they also stated that they would register with Immobilise."

(Reproduced from the Gazette, April 20th)

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Neighbourhood Alert - Pots and Plants Theft Warning

2011-04-14T03:46:00.000-07:00

Summer is approaching along with the usual crime trends that accompany it. Over the past week or so, we have noticed a sizeable increase in the theft of large pot plants and hanging baskets from private houses throughout Essex. Where the thieves have been seen, it is reported that they simply pull up outside the house in a Transit style vehicle, two men walk into the garden then lift the pot into the vehicle and drive off. It's all over in a few seconds. The thieves seem to be targeting large pot plants (some of the ones stolen are valued at over £200 each), garden ornaments and mature hanging baskets. Almost without exception the thefts have occurred from FRONT gardens.
There are very few ways by which you can secure a large terracotta pot to the floor and if you chain hanging baskets to their brackets, past offences have shown that the thieves may simply pull the brackets from the wall causing more damage.
The best advice we can give is not to display such items where passing thieves will be able to see them from the highway. If you have valuable pots and hanging baskets display them in the BACK garden; at least over the summer period.
The thieves know that there is big money to be made in stolen pot plants, hanging baskets, garden furniture, lawnmowers and other gardening equipment at this time of the year. We appreciate these items are difficult to secure but at the very least, don't make it easy for them.
And, whilst talking about the vulnerability of our front gardens, here are some more thoughts from me: "Personally speaking, as I travel around Brentwood, Epping Forest and Harlow districts, I often notice bicycles, children's scooters and ride-on toys left insecure and strewn around front gardens or lying against fences, walls and hedges, often on the public side of garden boundaries (footpaths etc). As both a parent and grandparent, I know how expensive some of these items are to buy, which is why I recommend that we all remember to take appropriate steps to ensure that these items don't become easy pickings for thieves!"

My final thought is that it is far easier to take precautions against theft than to comfort and pacify a distraught child who has lost his or her favourite possession!
Let's hope that we are going to enjoy a sunny stress free Easter and Summer this year!

Colin I. Freeman

Essex Watch Administrator - Western Division

(Reproduced from AboutMyArea.co.uk/Essex 13th April)

Gardien Tip: An excellent article by Colin Freeman with lots of common sense advice. For the products which can help you minimise garden theft, visit http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Crime rises with the temperature

2011-04-14T02:57:00.000-07:00

POLICE are warning residents to lock doors while they are out in their gardens. Officers are warning sneak-in burglaries increase when the weather gets warmer and people spend more time in their gardens.
Thieves prowl residential areas looking for opportunities where people have left windows and doors open.
The warning comes after a burglary in Cotswold Close, North Hykeham, on Saturday.
While the occupants were in the back garden a thief sneaked in through an unlocked back door.
An Acer laptop and a purse containing about £50 and bank cards were stolen.
Lincolnshire Police are urging residents to take care and make sure homes are secure while they are out in yards and gardens.

The advice is simple – to make sure doors and windows are locked.
Anyone with information on the incident should call Lincolnshire Police on 0300 1110300.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Reproduced from thisislincolnshire.co.uk April 12th)

Gardien Tip: Make access to the rear of your property as difficult as possible and always close doors, no matter how warm it is - see our advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/walls-fences-security.aspx

Bird thefts probed after spate of crimes across Sheerness

2011-04-01T04:29:00.000-07:00

A pensioner is counting the cost of being hit three times in ten weeks by a bird-napping crimewave sweeping Sheerness. Edwin Cross, 66, says he has had 100 birds, worth thousands of pounds, swiped from the aviaries in his back garden in Alexandra Street.
Remarkably it is only the tip of the iceberg, with police saying more than 120 birds have been stolen in six different raids across the town in recent weeks.
Now police are urging bird keepers to be extra vigilant against those looking to feather their nest with their ill-gotten gains.
The first theft took place on Friday, January 21, when a large quantity of red factor canaries and diamond doves were taken.
The same aviary was targeted on February 18, with zebra finches among others being taken. More recently on March 19, it was broken into again with 60-70 budgies taken.
Mr Cross said: "I have four big aviaries in the back garden and they caused a bit of damage to them and they left them open, so the birds that they didn’t take were left to escape.
"It has cost me a lot of money in the long run, about £2,000 with the amount of birds being pinched.
"I’ve still going to have birds and had them replaced.
"I’ve got alarmed locks on the aviaries now and they are very noisy. All you have to do is touch them and they go off.
"I have had birds for years. I am 66 and retired now and they are my hobby. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke – they’re all I’ve got.
"I love everything about them and something like this has given me a bit of a knock."
Among the other crimes 30 canaries were pinched from an aviary in Maple Street on March 18. Six days later a different aviary was hit with a further seven canaries taken.
And on March 21, the bird-brain thieves targeted a chicken run in Maple Street, stealing two cockerels and a hen.
DC Gary Seamark of the island’s crime investigation team, said: "I would warn bird owners to be vigilant at this time and to secure their aviaries wherever possible.
"They can also invest in additional security measures such as sensor lighting or CCTV, which may deter these offenders, who are predominantly acting in the hours of darkness.
"I would also appeal for information about any of the crimes which have taken place, as where animals are concerned it can be very distressing for their owners to lose them.
"I would appeal to the conscience of those involved to come forward."
Anyone with information should contact police on 01795 584111 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from Kent News 31st March 2011)

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Crime fear as weather hots up (say Peterborough Police)

2011-03-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

THE warmer weather has sparked a “garden raiders” warning from police to Peterborough householders.
Officers are urging householders to check the security of garden outbuildings as the weather warms up.
They are concerned because the spring often coincides with a rise in thefts from sheds, garages and gardens as people spend more time outside.
Items that are targeted can include high spec and ride-on mowers or expensive power tools.
Crime reduction officer Rachel Carr said most people were aware of the need to guard against house burglary, however, many do not consider sheds, garages and other outbuildings.
And police have warned that frequently tools and other items stolen from a garden shed or outbuilding have later been used to carry out out breaks-ins at domestic properties.
She said: “In some cases sheds have been broken into and tools or other equipment within were used to break into a home.
“People might be surprised at how even a dustbin left unsecured can be used by a burgler to commit a crime. “For instance a wheelie bin can be used to climb up to a first floor window - and obviously ladders provide a means for a burglar to break into a house.
She added: “Many garden sheds are out of sight in a rear garden. Residents should think about how an intruder might gain access.”
Now police are urging home owners to make sure they secure sheds and outbuildings with strong locks or even alarms and movement sensitive lights should also be installed..
They also advise that thorny shrubs should be planted beside fences and walls to increase security.

(Reproduced from The Peterborough Evening Telegraph, 24th March)

Gardien Tip: Sheds are the number one target - help to protect yourself by reading our article on shed security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Garden furniture 'should be locked away during the night'

2011-03-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

The weather may be getting warm enough for homeowners to venture out into their outdoor space, but they have also been warned to protect their garden furniture.
Swinton Insurance issued the plea for people to keep their prized possessions locked away in a secure place over the summer nights.
It comes after a survey that the firm conducted revealed that 23 per cent of Brits have admitted to being a victim of theft from their gardens during spring months in the past.
Steve Chelton, insurance development manager at Swinton, urged: "Homeowners need to be vigilant about locking their garden furniture away during the night to avoid garden theft."
He added that people should also look to add some quality locks to their property's doors and windows, so to protect their home too.
Jonathan Cracknell, household underwriter at Aviva, has backed up Mr Chelton's warnings recently, explaining that a lawn should have nothing lying around it on an evening, which could attract opportunistic summer thieves.

(Reproduced from GardenXL 22nd March 2011)

Gardien Tip: The figure of 23% underlines our our own feeling that garden crime is a major problem. Advice and solutions can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Clocks Springing Forward Sees Rise in Garden Thefts Warns Swinton

2011-03-22T04:44:00.000-07:00

With the clocks set to go forward next week Swinton Insurance is warning homeowners to ensure their garden furniture is securely locked away at night.

Swinton, the UK's leading high street retailer of contents insurance issued a warning after a survey of 1,200 homeowners revealed that 23% had been a victim of garden theft in the spring months.
As the evenings get lighter and summer approaches, many homeowners dust off their garden furniture and take it out of the shed. However, Swinton is reminding homeowners to lock away their garden furniture at night to avoid being a victim of garden theft.
As the evenings get warmer there is also the danger of leaving windows open, giving opportunistic thieves the perfect chance to sneak into homes. The survey revealed that an unlucky 17% of homeowners had been a victim of this type of crime in the past.
Steve Chelton, Insurance Development Manager at Swinton said, "Homeowners need to be vigilant about locking their garden furniture away during the night to avoid garden theft. Investing in some additional security like quality locks on doors and windows, will ensure homes can be left secured. It is also a good idea to check your home insurance policy to ensure you furniture is covered to avoid any costly home insurance claims in the event of being a victim of this type of crime."
Swinton is offering some top tips to avoid theft over the summer months:

Do not leave windows and doors open if your property is empty

Do not leave valuables on show near an open window

Invest in quality locks on doors and windows

If you are going on holiday ask a neighbour or family members to keep an eye on your property

Check all sheds, garages windows and doors and locked at night

(Reproduced from Marketwire 21st March 2011)

Gardien Tip: The problem is likely to be exacerbated this year with reductions in community policing taking effect. All the more reason to take some preventive action - see the solutions available at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Police offer garden crime prevention advice in New Mills following thefts

2011-03-22T03:06:00.000-07:00

Police in New Mills (Derbyshire) are encouraging residents to keep their gardens secure after a number of thefts during the past few weeks.
The latest one took place sometime between 11.20am and 12.15pm on Friday, March 18 when a large metal tractor wheel was taken from the front garden of a property on Beech Avenue.
Two plant pots, a patio table and three garden planters have also been reported as stolen since Friday, March 11 from the gardens of three different properties on Highfield Terrace, New Mills and Thornsett and Hayfield Road in Birch Vale.
Local officers are now reminding residents to make sure that their gardens are secure, especially as the spring approaches.
PCSO Lee Baker of the New Mills and Hayfield Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We would ask residents to keep an eye out on their gardens and to avoid leaving valuable items in a place where they could be stolen by an opportunist thief.
“You can help to reduce the potential of having belongings stolen by making sure items are securely stored in sheds or outbuildings, especially overnight or when out of the house.
“We also encourage residents to be good neighbours and to report any suspicious vehicles or people in their street.”
Other garden security advice includes:

■When planting, put heavy stone in the bottom of pots or planters to make them more difficult to be carried.

■If possible, anchor valuable garden ornaments or furniture to the ground and keep a photographic record to help officers to trace items back to their owner should they be recovered.

■Security mark items in your shed and any valuable items that might be in your garden.

■Make sure your shed is secure, that there are no panels which could be easily damaged and fit good quality locks and an alarm.

■Consider securing items such as ladders, bikes or large power tools in your shed by chaining them to a strong anchor point.

■Put all your tools and any children’s bikes or outdoor toys securely away once they are finished with.

■Planting bushes with prickly leaves or thorns close to any entry points could deter a potential thief, but make sure they don’t grow too high. A gravel pathway or driveway can also act as a good deterrent.

■Consider installing outdoor motion-sensor security lights.

■If you are away on holiday, ask your neighbours or a friend to keep an eye on your home and garden.

The New Mills and Hayfield Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team is also encouraging residents to consider becoming a member of Neighbourhood Watch.

PCSO Baker added: “Neighbourhood Watch aims to help reduce and prevent crime, by improving communications with the police and may help to build closer communities. Residents who are involved become familiar with crime prevention and can display window stickers and street signs which act as a deterrent to thieves.”

For more information or advice please contact the New Mills and Hayfield Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0345 123 33 33 or email newmills.neighbourhoods@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk

To report suspicious any activity you should call Derbyshire police on 0345 123 33 33

(Reproduced from Derbys Police, 21st March)

Gardien Tip: The above advice and more can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/ plus products to help deter garden crime.

Advice to halt crime

2011-03-15T03:21:00.000-07:00

POLICE have issued a reminder to home owners about the dangers of leaving windows and doors open as the weather gets warmer and Spring approaches.
‘Lock it or lose it’ is the message being handed out by the Neighbourhood Policing Teams as part of a seasonal message to reduce the opportunities to burglars caused by insecure premises.
On the whole, burglary is an opportunist crime. A burglar will select a target because it offers the best opportunity to commit crime without fear of detection and with the least number of obstacles in the way.
A building that presents itself as unoccupied and insecure is far more likely to be targeted than one which is properly secured.
When the weather gets warmer, people will automatically spend more time outside in the garden or leave doors and windows open to let air into the house.
Open or unlocked windows and doors are an open invitation for sneak-in burglars. It only takes a few minutes for a thief to grab things like car keys, mobile phones, handbags or wallets.
PC Richard Beeforth, of the East Riding Safe Communities Team, said: “Sneaking in through open doors is too common occurrence in the spring and summer months. The offenders are not master criminals, but instead opportunists walking around residential areas looking for possible insecure properties.
“Burglaries cause the victims a huge amount of distress, as well as time, sorting out insurance claims and in some case changing locks throughout the property in cases where keys are taken.
“Don’t become a victim of this type of crime. If your home is insecure it may only take seconds for the thief to gain entry and steal property.”
Police have issued basic crime prevention measures so you can reduce the risk of being targeted by burglars.
Advice includes locking doors immediately when you return home, keep doors and easy access windows locked, even if you are in the house or garden and to lock garden gates at all times. Police also advise keeping valuables out of sight where possible and making sure you have your postcode and house number marked on any valuables with UV marker pen.
If you would like further crime prevention advice, contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team by calling Humberside Police on 0845 60 60 222.

(reproduced from the Beverley Guardian, 14th March 2011)

Gardien Tip: The most common way for burglars to gain access is via the back garden, often using tools from the shed or simply lying around in the garden. See our specialist advice on shed security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Garden theft warning for residents

2011-03-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

Police are warning residents to ensure they don't leave property lying in the garden after a spate of thefts in Newcastle. On the evening of Monday March 7 police received a report that a mountain bike had been stolen from a garden at Station Road in Walker, while a report was received on Tuesday March 8 of a lawnmower and strimmer being stolen from a garden at Portman Place.
They are the most recent incidents of a spate which has taken place in the east of the city over recent weeks.
Since the start of the year nine bikes have been stolen after they were left lying in gardens and further incidents include the theft of gardening equipment.
With the lighter nights approaching police are warning residents to ensure their property is locked away out of the sight of opportunist thieves.
PC Euan Faulke, Byker and Walker Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Thousands of pounds worth of property has been stolen from gardens in the area after items such as bikes and lawnmowers have been left insecure.
"Opportunist thieves see something valuable just lying there and they take advantage. Stealing someone else's belongings is of course unacceptable and we continue to do all we can to trace offenders and recover property.
"However, a lot of these offences could have been prevented by the owner making sure their property is safely locked away and out of sight in the house or shed.
"This is particularly relevant now the lighter nights and warmer weather is coming and more people will be out cycling and doing gardening work. I'd urge people to ensure they put away any belongings after they have finished using them to help keep thieves at bay."
For more security advice or to report information about who is responsible for crime and disorder in your community contact the Byker and Walker Neighbourhood Policing Team via 03456 043 043 ext 69191 or email bykerwalker.npt@northumbria.pnn.police.uk

(Reproduced from Northumbria Police web site, 13th March 2011)

Gardien Tip: All the above is sound advice - more information and a range of top quality security products can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Engineer Major Ian Webster is victim of crime after fighting for country

2011-02-24T15:04:00.000-08:00

Days after returning from frontline duty in Afghanistan a Royal Engineer hero has had specialist bikes worth nearly £10,000 stolen from his garden.
Major Ian Webster came back from his tour last week after serving overseas with the Territorial Army for six months.
The 54-year-old who lives in The Street, Boughton, had taken his wife for a romantic overnight trip to London on Valentine's Day.
When the couple returned, however, they discovered thieves had cut through a padlock and stolen three mountain bikes used by Major Webster for triathlons and racing.
The father-of-two and grandfather-of-one, who has represented Great Britain in triathlon world championships, had spent a lot of time and money lovingly restoring the bikes.
It is thought the criminals who nabbed the precious equipment knew what they were looking for as they took the three most expensive bikes kept in the lock-up and left two others.
Major Webster has now been forced to postpone his training and preparation for June's Escape from Alcatraz event in San Francisco, which sees 2,000 of the world's best athletes descend on the city to battle it out in the infamous and extreme sporting event.
Having been a member of the TA for more than 35 years, Major Webster is a highly skilled engineer and has worked in some of the most deadly regions of Afghanistan, including Kandahar and Lashkar Gah.
He said: "It is annoying to say the least and to say I'm angry would be an understatement.
"After spending so long in such an inhospitable and potentially dangerous place away from my family and friends I was really looking forward to getting back and being able to head out and train.
"I feel helpless and there is nothing I can do. I'm still in utter disbelief at what has happened.
"It is unbelievable and not what I was expecting on my return. It is sickening."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kent Police on 01795 433020.

(Reproduced from Kentonline.co.uk 24th Feb )

Gardien Tip: It is vital that items of any significant value are stored securely. See our article on Bike Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/bike-security-print.htm

Garden Tool Theft Is Rising: What Can You Do About It?

2011-02-21T08:38:00.000-08:00

by Lyndon Ogden

Tool theft is on the rise at the same time as gardening has been rising in popularity, the recession has bitten hard and more people have decided to grow their own produce to money. At the same time that obviously means that people invest in sometimes very pricey tools usually with little security protecting them. No prises for guessing what that's led to an increase in a rise to then, yep, that's right, Tool Theft is on the rise, what can you do about it?

So lets imagine you've spent a good couple of hundred on all the tools to get your new garden off to a flying start so it can start producing you the home grown food you desire, but you're just leaving your tools inside that old rickety shed of yours leaves them open to theft from anybody who feels like it.

When a thief breaks into your shed, he'll either sell the tools on the after market, or he'll use them to break into your home and steal your most valuable possesions which are likely going to cost much more than the a trip down to the local hardware store. That's why I recommend metal garden sheds as an alternative to wood, they're tough, waterproof and exceedingly hard to break into without doing serious damage to yourself. Not to mention the amount of money you'll save due to it's long lasting nature, they won't be worn down by the everyday elements like wooden sheds, meaning your tools and lifestyle is safe.

Lyndon Ogden is a writer on a number of subjects including Metal Garden Sheds. His latest project is based around Garden Sheds, and Metal Garden Sheds generally.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lyndon_Ogden

Gardien Tip: All the above is sound advice. You can also read our own article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Lock away the garden tools, warn the police

2011-02-18T01:57:00.000-08:00

POLICE in Bury are warning residents not to leave garden tools outside for burglars to use to break into their homes.
The advice comes after implements were used in several incidents to force open windows and doors.
Neighbourhood officers across Bury will be increasing patrols in “hotspot” areas to continue to target offenders.
But residents are being urged to reduce the chances of them becoming a victim of crime by following simple advice.
Supt Mark Granby said: “It might sound obvious, but by locking garden tools away so they are secure and out of sight provides one less chance for thieves trying to break into homes.
“Burglars are continually looking for the easiest way to commit crime. Burglary can have a terrible impact on the victim when their home has been invaded. These simple actions can help to prevent this crime from happening.”
Victim Support is an independent charity that provides practical and emotional support for people affected by crime.
To speak to an adviser: call the Victim Supportline on 0845 30 30 900 or visit victimsupport.org.uk The service is confidential and free of charge.

(Reproduced from the Bury Times, 17th Feb)

Gardien Tip: Too many garden sheds are also very easy to break into to obtain garden tools so make sure your shed is as secure as possible. See our advice on shed security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Increase in Garden Crime seen

2011-02-08T02:52:00.000-08:00

The mailbox at Gardeners’ World magazine is brimming with letters and emails from gardeners who have been victims of theft. From these letters alone, it would seem that thefts from gardens and allotments are becoming more widespread, while gratuitous vandalism on allotments remains horribly common. Thefts range from handfuls of fresh fruit and veg to expensive garden tools, while whole sheds are reported to have been torn down and burned for ‘fun’. As gardens and allotments are quieter now than they are than in summer, they may be more at risk of falling prey to opportunistic thieves and vandals.

My first allotment was robbed in winter. Nothing expensive was taken (there wasn’t anything expensive to take), but my plastic, walk-in greenhouse vanished overnight, leaving my poor orange tree to fend for itself in sub-zero temperatures (it survived, but hasn’t flowered in the four years since). A cold frame, some lovely wooden seed trays and a hose pipe were also stolen, no doubt to be sold on for pennies at the nearest car boot sale. I was devastated at the time, but quickly accepted it as an inevitable part of allotment life.

Garden theft isn’t just perpetrated by lone opportunists. Gardening is big business, and so is ‘organised’ garden crime. Rare plants, garden gnomes, stone ornaments, expensive bonsais and even whole ponds, hedges and fences are just some of the items regularly reported as stolen. A friend of mine had one of two box cones stolen from outside her front door. Apart from ruining the symmetry of her front door display, the theft made her question whether or not she would replace it, knowing she would have to invest in ugly chains to secure it to the house.

In my heart, my garden is an extension of my house (in lots of ways it means more to me than the bricks and mortar), but I don’t secure it in the same way. It wouldn’t take much for someone to hop over the back gate, force open the shed and remove its contents. Again, there’s nothing expensive inside, but it’s all useful and is somehow part of the emotional attachment I have with my garden.

So, apart from investing in heavy duty locks and lobbying allotment committees to improve security measures, what can we do? Growing prickly hedges such as barberry along our boundaries will prevent most burglars from climbing, or hiding within, while creating noisy gravel paths will also deter them from entering. Shed windows can be covered with a curtain or blind to shield items from view.

Has your garden or allotment been targeted by thieves or vandals? What steps did you take to prevent it happening again?

(Reproduced from Garden Nursery, Online Garden Centre, 8th Feb )

Gardien Tip: The shed is the number one target - see our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Rural crime on policing radar

2011-02-04T02:09:00.000-08:00

GARDEN machinery and tools are amongst the prime targets of criminals working the rural Winchester district, police have warned. It comes after several burglaries in recent weeks, including a ram raid where thieves made off with a batch of chainsaws.
But officers feel they are now better placed to track the thieves, thanks to a growing network of farmers and other rural workers.
The district’s Countrywatch officer, PC Jon Radcliffe, has been instrumental in setting it up, and hundreds of people have joined the system.
Thanks to email and text messages, PC Radcliffe can instantly pass details of any suspicious activity to scheme members.
In turn, they provide similar information to him, and police have made several arrests in recent weeks. It includes some suspected poachers in Bramdean and West Meon.
However, officers are still hunting the criminals behind several rural burglaries in the past few weeks.
It includes a ram raid at Winchester Garden Machinery in Romsey Road, Winchester, in late December.
A batch of chainsaws was taken and police are checking if there are links to another burglary in Curdridge soon after.
It took place late at night on Wednesday, January 5 at Woodmans Farm in Curdridge Lane.
Thieves used bolt cutters to force open several locked business units and made off with tools, machinery and even vehicles.
It included an Iveco tipper truck owned by Bespoke Landscapes worth £5,000. The firm also lost £22,000 of other equipment.
They were not alone as several of their neighbours had property stolen, some of which was uninsured.
Because most of the firms were small, some had to close temporarily and cancel jobs until they could replace their machinery.
Other rural crimes include two attempted thefts from garages in Martins Fields, Compton last month.
PC Radcliffe: “What I would say is keep an eye on all sheds and outbuildings, keep them locked, and mark and postcode your property.”
He added: “What we are seeing is more people are prepared to report this kind of activity because the process is much better, so reporting is definitely on the up.”
Anyone with information on rural crime can contact PC Radcliffe at Bishop’s Waltham police station on 0845 045 4545.

(Reproduced from the Hampshire Chronicle, 4th Feb)

Gardien Tip: You can minimise the risk to your sheds and outbuildings by taking some basic precautions - see our article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Wyre Forest garden centre surgeries (Garden Crime)

2011-01-26T02:41:00.000-08:00

POLICE are using flower power as a way of communicating with residents.
Officers are branching out from the usual venues to hold PACT (Partners and Communities Together) surgeries at two Wyre Forest garden centres.
Customers will be able to meet the Kidderminster rural local policing team, discuss crime prevention issues and pick up advice leaflets.
Community Support Officer Kate Easthope and PC Jayne Willetts will be in the restaurant area of Barnett Hill Garden Centre near Blakedown between 5pm and 7pm on Wednesday, February 2, and then on the following Wednesdays - April 27, June 8, August 17, October 12, and December 7.
And they will be by the exit tills at Rowberrys Garden Centre on the A448 Bromsgrove Road near Chaddesley Corbett on Sunday, February 13 between 3pm and 5pm, followed by Saturday, April 9 between 10am and 12 noon, Saturday, June 4 between 11.30am and 1.30pm, Sunday, August 14 between 11.30am and 1.30pm, Saturday, October 22 between 11.30am and 1.30pm, and Sunday, December 4 between 11.30am and 1.30pm.
CSO Easthope said: “PACT surgeries are usually held at venues such as churches and schools, but increasingly we are holding them at places such as supermarkets and garden centres.
“We have already done occasional surgeries at both Barnett Hill and Rowberrys which were very well received by customers, so we thought it would be good to hold them on a regular basis.
“Keen gardeners are starting to think about spring, so while they are stocking up on new plants, they can pick up some crime prevention leaflets or have a chat about any concerns they have at the same time.
“We have arranged dates right through to the end of the year, so people know when and where we will be there and we hope they will make a note in their diaries to come and see us.”

(Reproduced from The Shuttle 26th Jan)

Gardien Tip: The number one target is the garden shed - protect it with a Shedbar or replace it with a secure metal shed. Details at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Appeal over Hartlepool garden theft

2011-01-25T04:40:00.000-08:00

Police are appealing for information after animal statues and furniture were stolen from a Hartlepool garden between Saturday night and the early hours of Sunday.
At about 9.15pm the victims were disturbed by the sound of a loud bang at their home on Peakston Close, before thieves stole a one and a half foot high Border Collie statue, two grey granite geese and a grey granite curved bench with squirrels carved into it.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has any information is asked to call PC Steve Cranson on 01642 302178.

Information can also be passed on anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from gazettelive.co.uk 26th January 2011)

Gardien Tip: See our advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

Burglary spree across Southampton

2011-01-09T11:16:00.000-08:00

SMASH AND grab burglars are on a new year rampage, using tools from people’s garden sheds to force their way in to homes.
The opportunist thieves are scaling fences, using alleyways to sneak into gardens and using hand tools to prise open doors or smash windows.
Despite overall crime being down in Southampton, there has been an unprecedented number of break-ins since the start of the year – averaging around six every night and some are happening when residents are at home.
Now police are warning residents to be extra vigilant and review their home security as they try to catch the culprits.
Since January 1, officers have received 32 reports of burglary at homes in Southampton. That’s a rise of 68 per cent against the same time last year when there were 19 reported in the same time.
The thieves are particularly targeting the Portswood and Polygon areas, where there are large numbers of shared homes while properties have also been hit in Bassett, Coxford, Millbrook and Banister Park.
Alarmingly, many of them have been left insecure, with doors or windows left unlocked. But in other cases, the burglars are forcing their way inside via the back of homes, taking gardening tools from unlocked garden sheds to prise their way in.
Police have also revealed that the problem was on the increase throughout December – with 139 house burglaries reported compared to 114 in the same period in 2009 – almost a 22 per cent rise. The range of property stolen has included everything from flat screen televisions, games consoles and games, laptops, mobile phones, photographic equipment, cash and jewellery.
Chief Inspector Stuart Murray said: “We are doing everything we can to identify offenders and bring them to justice but, we really do need householders to make it more difficult for the opportunist burglar to commit the crime in the first place.
“There are many crime prevention measures that can be implemented and our crime prevention officers or officers from our Safer Neighbourhoods teams are always willing to provide advice if required.
Chief Insp Murray added: “Once the burglar has committed the crime, they will try and dispose of the items, often for a fraction of their market price. We would therefore urge anyone who has been approached or knows of anyone who has bought unboxed items cheaply to contact us.”

Call 101 or the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

Beat the burglars

■ Always lock external doors
■ Don’t leave keys in the door
■ Don’t leave keys or valuables near to doors or windows
■ Close and secure windows, especially at night
■ Keep an eye out for neighbours
■ Be wary of doorstep callers
■ Report any suspicious people or vehicles
■ Lock sheds and garages and keep tools locked away
■ Use timer switches to light your home and turn on radios
■ Mark property with your postcode and house number with a UV marker pen to help identify it if it’s stolen and later recovered

(Reproduced from the Southern Daily Echo, 9th January)

Gardien Tip: Don't lock sheds with something which will be too easy to beat - at the least install a shed bar or an alarm. See the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Crime file - 04/01/11

2011-01-05T01:57:00.000-08:00

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cycle thieves pedalled off

Thieves stole a mountain bike from a back garden in Preston. The theft occurred at Silverdale Drive sometime between December 28 and 11am on December 30. The thieves took a red and black Korner Caldera 24-gear mountain bike, with the letters ‘XT’ on the frame.

Sprinkler thief raided garden

A thief stole garden tools and a sprinkler from a house in Worden Lane, Leyland, overnight on December 28.

Tackle stolen from garden

A fishing kit was stolen from a garden shed. The thief walked through the gate of a home in Riverside, Preston, between 10.30pm last Wednesday and 4am on Thursday, before getting into the shed and moving around a variety of items. A six-foot long sea fishing tackle bag was stolen from the shed.

Anyone with any information should call police on 08451 253545 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

(Reproduced from Lancashire Evening POst, 5th Jan 2011)

Gardien Tip: Garden sheds are the number one target for opportunist thieves. See how to protect them at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Garden security

2011-01-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

Thirty years ago, thefts from gardens were quite rare, mainly being limited to pranksters swapping neighbours' gates around or transferring a collection of gnomes from one garden to another. There was the odd overnight theft of freshly laid turf or a newly planted shrub, or a bicycle left out, but on the whole gardens, particularly back gardens, were safe from thieves. Even garden tools seemed untouchable, probably because it was too difficult to find a ready buyer for a 15-year old rake or a rusty lawnmower. To sell on garden plants or tools, the thief needed a market with plenty of potential customers, and there is no doubt that the arrival of the car boot sale in the 1980s contributed to a big rise in garden theft, which has continued to grow steadily since.

It is so easy to sell anything to an unsuspecting shopper in the commotion and anonymity of a boot sale. At these events, you will often find somebody selling garden equipment such as old fork handles, spades and seven different lawnmowers. In many cases, these may be the legitimate remnants of several house clearance sales, but someone with 23 planted hanging baskets of different types, all with different plants, has to make you wonder.

During the past two decades, there has been a big rise in the general popularity of gardening and entertaining in the garden. For many, the garden has become an outdoor 'room', with comfortable furniture, cooking facilities and shelter, a place to while away more and more time in the summer. DIY stores and garden centres offer a tempting range of garden accessories, such as dining tables and chairs, heaters and gas barbecues (all designed to be left outside), mature potted trees, and a wide range of statuary and sculptures. Thus, the outlet for stolen property has been matched by a greater availability of property to plunder. Moreover, the fact that many of our homes are better secured may have displaced the risk to the garden instead.

Marking your garden property is one of the most valuable things you can do to safeguard it, because if it is stolen, at least the police will be able to return it to you if it's recovered. It's an unfortunate fact that most of the garden equipment and furniture that comes into the hands of the police cannot be traced to the rightful owners simply because it lacks identification. A lot of this unmarked property is eventually auctioned off, the proceeds going to charity.

Despite this apparently bleak picture, it must be remembered that garden theft is very opportunistic. Often, exercising common sense and taking a few simple precautions will be enough to deter the garden thief. This section will help you improve your garden security, but remember that the boundary fences and walls are your first line of defence. Get these right and install an appropriate level of security and aesthetic lighting around the garden.

(Reproduced from hubpages.com 2nd January 2011)

Gardien Tip: All the above is sound advice. The products to solve the issues can be found at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/

Stay safe around your home

2010-11-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

There's no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home or from public spaces. It's unlikely you'll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path if you have cleared it carefully. Follow the snow code when clearing snow and ice safely.
The snow code - tips on clearing snow and ice from pavements or public spaces
Prevent slips - Pay extra attention to clear snow and ice from steps and steep pathways - you might need to use more salt on these areas.
If you clear snow and ice yourself, be careful - don’t make the pathways more dangerous by causing them to refreeze. But don’t be put off clearing paths because you’re afraid someone will get injured.
Remember, people walking on snow and ice have responsibility to be careful themselves. Follow the advice below to make sure you clear the pathway safely and effectively.
Clear the snow or ice early in the day
It’s easier to move fresh, loose snow rather than hard snow that has packed together from people walking on it. So if possible, start removing the snow and ice in the morning. If you remove the top layer of snow in the morning, any sunshine during the day will help melt any ice beneath. You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall to stop it refreezing overnight.
Use salt or sand - not water
If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice. Black ice increases the risk of injuries as it is invisible and very slippery. You can prevent black ice by spreading some salt on the area you have cleared. You can use ordinary table or dishwasher salt - a tablespoon for each square metre you clear should work. Don’t use the salt found in salting bins - this will be needed to keep the roads clear.
Be careful not to spread salt on plants or grass as it may cause them damage.
If you don’t have enough salt, you can also use sand or ash. These won’t stop the path icing over as well as salt, but will provide good grip under foot.
Take care where you move the snow
When you’re shoveling snow, take care where you put it so it doesn’t block people’s paths or drains. Make sure you make a path down the middle of the area to be cleared first, so you have a clear surface to walk on. Then shovel the snow from the centre of the path to the sides.
Offer to clear your neighbours’ paths
If your neighbour will have difficulty getting in and out of their home, offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well. Check that any elderly or disabled neighbours are alright in the cold weather. If you’re worried about them, contact your local council.
Road gritting and snow clearance by your council
Your local council will add grit to roads and pavements in your area and clear snow in winter. For information about where and when your council is gritting local roads, check its website.

Police issue Ribble Valley crime alert for dark nights

2010-11-25T01:07:00.000-08:00

POLICE in the Ribble Valley are urging people not to be left in the dark with their home security now the clocks have gone back.
Officers are reminding householders to check lighting and security and to brush up on those good security habits that may have been relaxed during the summer.
Neighbourhood Policing Insp. Debby Carter said: "Crime levels, including burglary figures, are currently at an all time low across Lancashire, but it is important that homeowners don't become complacent. "With the dark nights upon us, now is an ideal time to double check security and lighting and make sure that your home is adequately protected."
Insp. Carter urged homeowners to:
Consider fitting a burglar alarm system, which provides a visible deterrent to the front and back of your home as well as audible warning. Even a cheap DIY one is better than nothing at all.
Check your outside security lighting is working.
Check your tools, spades, ladders, etc that may be left out in your garden or yard are securely locked away.
Make sure doors and windows are locked and secure when you leave your home. Beware of any "bogus caller" at the door. Keep them out, and call the police. Leave a light on in a room and remember to draw the curtains when you go out at night. Or invest in a timer switch for lights. They are cheaply available from many main stores and supermarkets.
Mark your postcode and house number on expensive electrical equipment and property with a UV security pen, permanent marker or engraver.
Keep the garden tidy with shrubs and trees cut back so they can't provide a screen for thieves.
Put house and car keys away safely where they cannot be seen when they are not in use and well away from the doors they unlock.
Insp. Carter added: "Crime is extremely low and by working together we can keep it that way. If people follow these handy hints and tips they can reduce the risk of being targeted by thieves even further."

(Reproduced from Clitheroe Today, 23rd Nov 2010)

Gardien Tip: Sadly an increase in petty crime is predicted during the forthcoming period of austerity but the necessary products to help minimise your own risk of being a victim can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Buckinghamshire Crime Round-up

2010-11-03T02:13:00.000-07:00

DOWNLEY: Offenders gained entry to a premise in Stephenson Close by forcing a rear ground floor window with a garden fork between 2.15pm and 6.30pm on Sunday.
A tidy search was made of the property and jewellery, cash and two Dell laptop computers were stolen, one silver and one yellow. A ladder which does not belong to the premises was found in the rear garden, and is believed to have been brought by the offender.
WEST WYCOMBE: Overnight between Friday and Saturday a number of garden sheds were entered in Chorley Road. Padlocks were cut and garden tools including strimmers, pressure washers and chainsaws were stolen.
If you have any information about these crimes contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from Bucks Free Press, 3rd Nov 2010)

Gardien Tip: Don't make things easy by leaving garden tools easily accessible. And make sure that your shed is really secure - see our advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Canaries stolen from back garden

2010-10-26T01:58:00.000-07:00

Police are appealing for information after a number of canaries were stolen from a house in Bolton-le-Sands near Carnforth. The theft occurred between 6.30pm on Tuesday October 19 and 8.30am the following morning. Twelve Harlequin canaries were stolen from an aviary in the back garden of a property on Sunnycroft Hillcrest Avenue. They are described as being of varying colours with a crown on their head. PC Peter Bennett, from Morecambe police, said: “It is possible that these canaries may have been stolen specifically due to their rarity value, however an opportunist theft cannot be ruled out.” Anyone with information should call police on 08451 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from Lancashire Evening Post, 25th October)

Gardien Tip: All pet enclosures need to be suitably alarmed - the distress caused by the loss of animals is generally worse than the loss of goods. See the garden alarms available at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-alarms.aspx

Garden sheds targeted in spate of thefts

2010-10-13T02:07:00.000-07:00

A VILLAGE near Farnham was hit with a spate of burglaries and thefts of gardening equipment worth more than £1,000 at the end of last week.
Residents are being urged to be vigilant following six incidents that all took place in Hamlash Lane, Frensham.
Firstly, a pair of bolt croppers were stolen from a shed which was forced open some time between 4pm on Friday (October 9) and 9am on Saturday.
The offender caused £15 of damage by forcing the door handle and got away with the tools valued at £25.
A trailer worth £750 was stolen from a field when thieves got through three insecure gates to find the unit, which was then pushed out onto the road.
The offence took place some time between 10pm on Friday and 8.15am the following morning.
During a similar timeframe a Ford pick-up was broken into when the back passenger window was smashed.
Gardening equipment worth more than £1,000 was stolen including a Stihl leaf blower and a Stihl hedge cutter.
An electric lawnmower valued at £600 was stolen from an insecure garden shed in the same area some time between 4pm on October 3 and 4pm on October 9.
Waverley’s crime reduction advisor John Robini said: “I would encourage everyone to be vigilant following this trail of crime and to report to Surrey Police anyone seen acting suspiciously in their neighbourhood.
“Homeowners should always check on their security whether this be for their houses, outbuildings or cars.”
Police recommend sheds are alarmed and padlocked and contents such as tools, garden furniture, lawnmowers and bicycles should also be secured and marked permanently and prominently with name, postcode and house number.
Anyone with information on the recent incidents should contact 0845 125 2222, quoting reference WV/10/5700.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be called anonymously and free of charge on 0800 555 111

(Reproduced from getSurrey.co.uk October 12th)

Gardien Tip: The shed is the number one target for thieves - see the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Gnoming

2010-10-11T06:29:00.000-07:00

Gnomes – once the much mocked toys of old aged pensioners are coming back into fashion. Banned from the Chelsea Flower Show in the last decade, the gnomes were discarded. But thanks to a boon in trendy gardens, with people buying gazebos and high power gas barbeques, the gnome is being welcomed back with open arms. In the eighteen to twenty four year old bracket, gnomes are all the rage, with sixteen percent of home owners in this bracket owning them, second only to the over fifty fives. As these little creatures grow in popularity, so does the act of stealing gnomes, or ‘gnoming’.
Unfortunately, garden theft isn’t limited to the lowly gnome. Nearly twenty eight percent of homeowners have experienced theft of garden possessions, with anything from patio heaters to koi carp being pinched when we are out. London is the capital of garden theft in the UK, with thirty four percent of people having something stolen. Sadly, while people go to great lengths to protect their belongings in their home, they are not so careful with items of worth in the garden. On the whole, people forget to lock sheds and garages, making their belongings easy pickings for thieves all over the country.
Top tips are to be vigilant if you see someone lurking around who shouldn’t be, and keep garden ladders and tools locked in the shed with a padlock while they aren’t in use. Even if you are in the garden, be careful, as an opportunist burglar will pinch anything if given a chance. Make sure that your Contents Insurance policy covers your belongings in the garden.

(Reproduced from Chelsea Football Match, 11th Oct 2010)

Gardien Tip: Those percentages relating to Garden Theft are alarming - advice and products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Police issue warning after more thefts from gardens

2010-10-05T03:43:00.000-07:00

POLICE are urging residents to take all preventative measures possible after another spate of garden ornament thefts.
In recent weeks, thieves have stolen a variety of garden items from homes in Great Totham, Tiptree, Purleigh and Maldon.
Two stone statues were stolen from the garden of a home in Pump Lane, Purleigh, between midnight on September 10 and the same time on September 20.
Five pink chimney pots were taken from a garden in D'Arcy Road, Tiptree, between midnight on September 16 and midnight on September 20.
Four red terracotta Victorian chimney pots were also taken from a garden in Tiptree Road, Wickham Bishops, between 2am last Thursday and 5pm last Friday, while an iron gate was stolen from a home in Orchard Road, Maldon, between 7.30pm and 10pm on Friday.
Crime reduction adviser Dave Rapson, said: "We advise residents to take a photo of ornaments in their gardens and also that they secure them with cement or a decent chain and lock.
"We would also urge people to keep an eye out for vehicles acting suspiciously in rural areas."

(Reproduced from the Maldon Standard 29th Sept 2010)

Gardien Tip: Lots of free advice and approved security products can be seen by visiting www.garden-security.co.uk

Prickly plants prevent crime

2010-09-16T03:26:00.000-07:00

THIS weekend police in Moreton in Marsh will be visiting two garden centres in the area to talk to shoppers about how garden lighting, prickly plants, bushes and hedging can help keep homes secure.
On Saturday September 18 PC Caroline Paxford and PCSO Renee Morgan will be visiting the Fosseway Garden Centre and the Batsford Garden Centre offering advice about defensive gardening and home security.
In June Gloucestershire Constabulary launched their award-winning Defensive Gardening campaign for 2010. The campaign is supported by Crimestoppers and, following its inception in 2009, won a national award from Secured by Design which included a grant to fund the campaign, and more besides, this year.
PC Paxford said: “I think people would be very surprised to learn how effective the techniques the campaign advocates can be. I’d like to encourage people to come and visit us on Saturday, or any one of the garden centres and nurseries that are involved, to learn about these tips and many more.”
Some people are reluctant about certain home security purchases as they can be unattractive but an impenetrable hedge is just as effective as security fencing and looks far more attractive. Spiky shrubs around vulnerable windows can serve as a deterrent to those tempted to break in and small purchases from a garden centre such as shed alarms and dawn to dusk lights can go a long way to helping deter thieves.
In total 39 garden centres and nurseries across the county are supporting the 2010 campaign and visitors to these stores will be able to pick up a leaflet, produced by Crimestoppers, which give top tips to help beat the garden burglar and include a comprehensive list of prickly plants.
The officers will be at the Fosseway Garden Centre on the A429 from 10am until 1pm and at the Batsford Garden Centre on the A44 from 2pm to 5pm.
More information about the Defensive Gardening campaign, a comprehensive list of the types of prickly plants to purchase and a list of the Garden Centres involved can be found on the Gloucestershire Constabulary website.

(Reproduced from Wilts & Gloucestershire Standard, Sept 15th)

Gardien Tip: For comprehensive advice about garden security visit www.garden-security.co.uk

Crime is sad sign of times for Rossendale grandad

2010-09-15T01:26:00.000-07:00

AN ANGRY grandad has blasted thieves with a hand-painted sign in his front garden.
Peter Wareing, 61, of Helmshore Road, Helmshore, has put years of effort into his immaculate garden, with the help of his wife Carol, 65.
But when six multi-coloured solar lights went missing from his lawn, he decided to send a message to those responsible.
The sign, which can be seen by drivers and passers-by, reads: “May I wish the low life who stole from us a painful life.”
The couple, who have lived in Helmshore Road for 31 years, said the lights were stolen some time overnight, a week last Saturday.
Mr Wareing, an electrician and gas engineer, said: “It's not the lights, it's the principle of it.
“I’ve spent a lot of money on there and it’s just the pettiness to come in and take the lights.
“It's an invasion. They have come right up to my house.
“There was a statue with a light where my cat was buried, which means a lot to me, and they took that.
“I'm going to take the sign down now, because I think they have got the message.”
Mrs Wareing said thieves had previously stolen a 'please shut the gate' sign.
She added: “It must have been after dark. They stole six lights we put in, and two from next door's garden.
“They only cost about £20 for four, but somebody has come down into our garden, which we have put a lot of effort into, and taken them. It's sad.”
The couple's neighbour, who did not wish to be named, said she had been consoled by a member of the community.
She said: “It was upsetting, but I want to say thank you to a neighbour who came round afterwards with a bunch of flowers. I didn't even know the lady.”

(Reproduced from The Lancashire Telegraph, Sept 14th)

Gardien Tip: A cheap and effective method of discouraging petty theft is to use Property Marking stencils. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectaMark-Property-Marking.aspx