garden security blog

Saturday, January 10, 2015

Reminder to New Mills residents on shed security

Police in New Mills are reminding locals to make sure their sheds and gardens are secure following a spate of break-ins in the area.

Between 11pm on January 6 and 7.30am on January 7, offenders gained entry to five sheds on Lower Hague.
A strimmer, which was taken from inside one of the sheds, was found close by following the incident.
Although nothing was stolen on this occasion, the incident has prompted officers to remind residents of the best way to protect their property.
Advice includes fitting a good quality lock; consider purchasing a shed alarm to deter a thief and secure any bikes with a quality chain; ensure valuables are kept out of view and consider covering windows from the inside; mark all valuables with a property marking system and don’t leave items in your garden that could make the life of a thief any easier, ie a ladder which could be used to gain access to the upper floor of your home.
Anyone with information about the shed break-ins should contact PC David Collier on 101, quoting crime number 908/15.

(Reproduced from Buxton Advertiser, Jan 10th 2015)

Gardien Comment: Sound advice but much more can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk along with quality security solutions.

Friday, January 9, 2015

Residents speechless in valuable slab theft

RESIDENTS were left ‘bewildered’ when they discovered 60 18th century flagstones, valued at more than £10,000, had been removed from their rose garden.

“I crossed over the road to see and it looked like someone had nicked the garden,” said Paul Walker, of Brooklands in New Salts Farm Road, Shoreham.
Previously a club and farm house built in 1753, Brooklands now serves as flats for several residents, who all enjoyed a beautiful rose garden adorned with original flagstone slabs and a church font.
However, on the morning of Monday, December 29, resident Joanna Silsby, who has lived in Brooklands since the 1980s, ventured into the garden and notice that her usual path had disappeared.
“I went outside about 10am and I noticed that the gate was open and I looked down the path and saw that there were no slabs,” she said. “They took them because they’re old. It must have been targeted.”
Mr Walker said that it was not often he was left speechless.
He said: “I’m in complete bewilderment.
“The slabs would have been there when the property was built back in the 1700s.
“We had a lovely path and it was 100 metres long, but they have pretty much removed everything.”
Mrs Silsby’s husband, Paul, said the whole incident was like a practical joke.
“It must have taken hours to remove them,” he said. “They are big, nearly five inches thick and two blokes would have trouble lifting them.”
Mr Silsby claimed that the criminals must have broken through the neighbouring farm’s fence and entered the property with a vehicle, while all the residents were away for the Christmas season.
Sussex Police are looking for witnesses to the incident.
A spokesperson said: “At 10.30am on Monday, December 29, we received a report that since sometime on Sunday, December 28, 60 solid stone flagstones valued at £180 each had been lifted and stolen from the front of a property in New Salts Farm Road. There have been no arrests.
“Anyone who saw what happened or has information is asked to contact police via 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting serial 374 of 29/12.

(Reproduced from Shoreham Herald, 9th Jan 2015)

Gardien Comment: Absolutely nothing is sacred and any suspicious activity should be questioned. Never assume that people dressed as workmen are authorized to do whatever you observe if it appears unusual - simply ask them what they are doing and inform the police if the answer does not satisfy you.

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Residents in Diss and surrounding areas are being advised to keep an eye on their sheds and garages over the winter months.

With the colder weather setting in and shorter days people are less likely to be in their garden leaving places like sheds and garages more vulnerable to thieves.
Local policing commander for Diss, Insp Mike Britton, said: “At this time of year sheds and garages are targeted due to the fact they are not used as much.
“I would advise local residents to make sure they keep sheds and garages locked and secure and to also check them regularly.”

Other crime prevention tips include:
Ideally store high value items inside the home
Use a padlock and chain to secure items such a lawn mowers to a heavy anchor

Cycle locks can be used to secure cycles and other heavy items together

Mark your property with your house number and post code – remember that permanently marked property is less attractive as it would be difficult for a thief to sell.
Fit quality mortice locks or padlocks 1/3 up and a 1/3 down on the door to reduce the leverage available
Fit a security light to deter the thief and alert you to activity near your shed
Use a shield alarm which sounds if the shed door is forced open.
For more crime prevention advice visit www.norfolk.police.uk or speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101

(Reproduced from Eastern Daily Press 2nd Dec)

Gardien Comment: Much more advice and quality security products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Cost of green-fingered theft rises to £2.6m

Garden tools and equipment are some of the top items targeted by thieves, according to the UK’s leading rural insurer.

NFU Mutual’s latest Rural Crime Survey suggests thieves are increasingly turning their attention to gardens, which are often easy targets, and advises homeowners to install extra security measures in the garden as well as the home to protect them from green-fingered thieves.

The cost of garden theft claims topped £2.6m in 2013 and made up 23% of all household thefts, an increase of 29% on the previous year. The average claim was over £1,800 and the most commonly targeted and costly items included lawnmowers, heating oil and tools. Interestingly, garden gates, ornaments, plants and pets were also among the commonly targeted items.

So what can you do to protect your garden and its contents?

Use SmartWater to mark valuable possessions
Fit heavy-duty padlocks to garages and other outbuildings
Avoid leaving valuables on view
Keep garden gates locked
Keep garden tools secure and out of sight
Consider outside security lighting and CCTV
Display signs that advertise your security measures
Ensure you have adequate home insurance cover

Victoria Walton, Home Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “Security can deter thieves from trying their luck in you garden, but insurance is important too. Our gardens are now, more than ever, an extension of our homes, often with expensive contents so it’s worth checking what cover your home policy provides, and the amount it covers.”

The Mutual surveyed its network of more than 300 agencies throughout rural areas of the UK to identify current trends. The Rural Crime Survey revealed the cost of crime to the rural economy totalled £44.5m in 2013 – up 5.2% on 2012.

The Mutual also organises the Country Crime Fighters Awards, a nationwide competition to support and encourage examples of crime prevention taking place in the countryside.

“The awards highlight and rewarded initiatives that unite communities and help to beat rural crime and we are looking forward to receiving more entries this year,” added Victoria.

To enter the Country Crime Fighter awards visit nfumutual.co.uk/crimefighters, entries close on 18th August.

For more information visit nfumutual.co.uk/ruralcrime

(Reproduced from easier.com 13th August 2014)

Gardien Comment: More advice and quality garden security products can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Bike theft in Hitchin prompts police appeal

The theft of a mountain bike from a garden in Hitchin has prompted a police appeal for information.
Between 4.30pm and 11.30pm hours on June 19, the blue ladies mountain bike was stolen from a garden in Millstream Close.
Offenders had entered the rear garden and removed the bike before making off in an unknown direction.
Police say there have been a number of cycle thefts recently and whilst they are actively trying to find those responsible, any information should be forwarded to the police.
Those with information are asked to call the police non-emergency number, 101.

(Reproduced from The Advertiser, 24th June 2014)

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

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Police offer garden crime prevention tips

Derbyshire residents are being urged to make sure their sheds are secure as part of a police campaign to prevent summer break-ins. Householders are being urged to increase their shed and garden security, and officers from the Bakewell Safer Neighbourhood Team will be speaking to residents about the steps that they can take.
The force wants to combat thefts from sheds, garages and outbuildings this summer when people will be spending more time in their gardens.
Police are urging residents to ensure outbuildings, sheds are garages are properly secure and that any valuables, including power tools and garden equipment are security marked and kept out of view. The policing team will be heading to a Birchover garden event between 1pm and 5pm on Saturday, June 14, to offer crime prevention advice around protecting sheds, garages and outbuildings.
And on Thursday, June 19, police will be teaming up with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service to offer advice around crime and fire prevention.
On Friday, June 27, officers will be setting up shop at the Moorhall Stores in Bakewell between 8.30am and 11am to encourage cyclists to security mark their bikes.

(Reproduced from The Star, 11th June 2014)

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

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Tamworth's gardeners urged to get 'sheducated' and secure their gardens against theft

PCSO John Horton and PCSO Phil Trow are pictured with their campaign posters and Homebase store manager Mark Harrison.

Comments (0) TAMWORTH’S gardeners are to be ‘sheducated’ in a bid to help them keep their garden sheds safe and secure.
On Saturday 31 May and Sunday June 1, police and members of the community safety partnership will be at Ventura Park’s Homebase store to demonstrate shed security options.
Local residents will be given basic security and safety advice, shown what types of security devices are available in-store and how to fit and use them correctly. They can also join Neighbourhood Watch and receive a discount on Smartwater, the forensic property protecting solution.
PCSO John Horton said: “Whilst we’d like to reassure residents that there is not necessarily an increase in shed breaks in Tamworth, unfortunately it is a type of crime that is ever present. Lots of people tend to store high value equipment such as tools, power tools, lawn mowers and bikes in sheds or outbuildings without adequate security and don’t realise the value of their property until it’s stolen. As well as residents losing property, some of those items could potentially be used to break in to homes.
“Ultimately, ‘Sheducation’ is about crime prevention. By ‘sheducating’ people we are hoping it will encourage them to be more vigilant and take those extra security measures around their gardens such as simply locking the side gate, using padlocks and locking bikes kept in sheds. For the green fingered people, we can also advise on certain things to plant that will act as “nature’s barbed wire.”
“We urge people to come on down to Homebase, get ‘sheducated’ and do their bit to deter thieves,” he added.

PCSO John Horton and PCSO Phil Trow are pictured with their campaign posters and Homebase store manager Mark Harrison.

TAMWORTH’S gardeners are to be ‘sheducated’ in a bid to help them keep their garden sheds safe and secure.

On Saturday 31 May and Sunday June 1, police and members of the community safety partnership will be at Ventura Park’s Homebase store to demonstrate shed security options.

Local residents will be given basic security and safety advice, shown what types of security devices are available in-store and how to fit and use them correctly. They can also join Neighbourhood Watch and receive a discount on Smartwater, the forensic property protecting solution.

PCSO John Horton said: “Whilst we’d like to reassure residents that there is not necessarily an increase in shed breaks in Tamworth, unfortunately it is a type of crime that is ever present. Lots of people tend to store high value equipment such as tools, power tools, lawn mowers and bikes in sheds or outbuildings without adequate security and don’t realise the value of their property until it’s stolen. As well as residents losing property, some of those items could potentially be used to break in to homes.

“Ultimately, ‘Sheducation’ is about crime prevention. By ‘sheducating’ people we are hoping it will encourage them to be more vigilant and take those extra security measures around their gardens such as simply locking the side gate, using padlocks and locking bikes kept in sheds. For the green fingered people, we can also advise on certain things to plant that will act as “nature’s barbed wire.”

“We urge people to come on down to Homebase, get ‘sheducated’ and do their bit to deter thieves,” he added.

(Reproduced from Tamworth Herald May 19th)

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

Friday, May 16, 2014

Protect your patch from garden crime

When you've created a beautiful garden haven, it's important to protect it from thieves.
When you've created a beautiful garden haven, it's important to protect it from thieves.

Comments (0) WHILE most of us ensure our house alarm is switched on, doors locked and a light left on when the house is empty, how many of us pay the same attention to garden security?
As the fine spring weather settles in and the gardening bug bites, estate agent Harrison Murray has issued a seasonal warning to homeowners against green-fingered thieves.
The brighter days and longer weekends present more opportunity for mowing lawns, pottering in the garden, allowing the children to play outdoors and spending time with friends and family.
But according to the Crime Prevention website, garden crime has risen to about a million reports a year. Garden crimes jump by about 50% during the summer months, but can happen all year round.

When you've created a beautiful garden haven, it's important to protect it from thieves.

WHILE most of us ensure our house alarm is switched on, doors locked and a light left on when the house is empty, how many of us pay the same attention to garden security?

As the fine spring weather settles in and the gardening bug bites, estate agent Harrison Murray has issued a seasonal warning to homeowners against green-fingered thieves.

The brighter days and longer weekends present more opportunity for mowing lawns, pottering in the garden, allowing the children to play outdoors and spending time with friends and family.
But according to the Crime Prevention website, garden crime has risen to about a million reports a year. Garden crimes jump by about 50% during the summer months, but can happen all year round.

(Reproduced from The Derby Telegraph, May 15th)

Gardien Comment: In depth advice and quality garden security products are available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Children’s 12ft climbing frame stolen from Hull garden – sold on Facebook hours later

GONE: A family in Stroud Crescent East, Bransholme, have had their climbing frame stolen from the back garden. Picture: Jack Harland

FAMILY SHOCKED: Thieves made off with a children’s climbing frame from a garden in Stroud Crescent East, Bransholme – only for the family to see it ‘for sale’ on Facebook hours later. Picture: Jack Harland

Comments (7) A FAMILY have spoken of their shock after their huge climbing frame was stolen and sold just hours later on Facebook.
The 12ft Little Tikes 8-in-1 Playground vanished from the fenced garden of the family home in Stroud Crescent East, in Bransholme, over the bank holiday weekend.
Three men were spotted carrying the climbing frame along the street at about 11.30pm on the Saturday, having lifted it over a 5ft fence.
Mum-of-six Sally Walker is appealing for the person who bought it to contact police, so the thieves can be caught.

A FAMILY have spoken of their shock after their huge climbing frame was stolen and sold just hours later on Facebook.
The 12ft Little Tikes 8-in-1 Playground vanished from the fenced garden of the family home in Stroud Crescent East, in Bransholme, over the bank holiday weekend.
Three men were spotted carrying the climbing frame along the street at about 11.30pm on the Saturday, having lifted it over a 5ft fence.
Mum-of-six Sally Walker is appealing for the person who bought it to contact police, so the thieves can be caught.

Read more at http://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/Children-8217-s-12ft-climbing-frame-stolen-Hull/story-21099838-detail/story.html#I4xrCmS1EIVe3OWe.99

A FAMILY have spoken of their shock after their huge climbing frame was stolen and sold just hours later on Facebook.

The 12ft Little Tikes 8-in-1 Playground vanished from the fenced garden of the family home in Stroud Crescent East, in Bransholme, over the bank holiday weekend.

Three men were spotted carrying the climbing frame along the street at about 11.30pm on the Saturday, having lifted it over a 5ft fence.

Mum-of-six Sally Walker is appealing for the person who bought it to contact police, so the thieves can be caught.

(Reproduced from Hull Daily Mail May 15th)

Gardien Comment: We recommend SelectaDNA for the marking of your key items of property both indoor and outdoor. This identifies it absolutely as your property and helps the police return stolen goods to the rightful owner. See http://www.garden-security.co.uk/SelectamarkhomeDNA50.aspx

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Aviva's Top Tips to beat the shed burglar

Green-fingered homeowners are being warned to secure their sheds and garages as the long-awaited British Summertime also brings a spike in theft from the great outdoors

Analysis of ten years of claims data from Aviva reveals that thefts from gardens and outbuildings shoot up by over a quarter (25%)* when the clocks go forward with the average haul totalling around £850.
Children's toys, bikes and garden tools - from the swankiest lawnmower to the basic rake - are the thieves favourite:
Of the garden equipment stolen last year:

42% of thefts were for power tools, like electric drills, planers and saws
39% were for simple hand tools like spades, shovels, rakes and forks
19% were for electric and petrol lawnmowers, chainsaws and ladders**

Statistics show that thefts from outside the home start to increase as evenings get lighter at the beginning of March with a 10% increase compared to the dark nights of January.
Claims then steadily increase as the days get longer and lighter until they reach their peak in July and August when they are almost 40% higher than at the beginning of the year.
Peter Ketteringham, household underwriting manager at Aviva, says; "Extra hours of sunlight are obviously very welcome after months of darkness, but it also means that your expensive power tools, bikes and golf clubs are more visible than ever to a passing thief, as is your home security- or lack of it!
"So try not to advertise what you've got, make sure sheds and summerhouses are properly secured and clear up your garden every evening so there's nothing lying around that could tempt a criminal on to your property.
"And bear in mind that loose items like ladders and wheelie bins are perfect for burglars to use to get into your home, so shut them away, out of sight if you can."

Cover

Aviva household policies provide cover for theft of contents in outbuildings, garages and garden sheds up to £2500, so that would include your mountain bike, lawnmower and set of golf clubs.
Up to £500 of your contents in the garden are also covered, as standard, for theft and damage caused by things like fire, malicious damage or extreme weather events. This includes patio furniture, pots and BBQs, but if you have some particularly nice garden ornaments or a fancy table and chairs that cover can be increased to £1500 for around £9 a year.
But remember bikes are not covered if you leave them lying in your garden.
If you do want cover for your bikes outside the home and anywhere in the world you might want to take out extra cycle cover which costs from around £9 a year for the whole family's bikes. (Cover limits from £300 to £2,500)
Similarly if you would like your golf clubs or fishing tackle to be covered outside the home you could consider taking out additional personal belongings cover, which again covers you anywhere in the world. It costs from around £27 a year for £2000 worth of cover.

Aviva's Top Tips to beat the shed burglar

Don't tempt the thieves in, put away your garden tools, paddling pool, trampoline and bikes at the end of the day
Lock your sheds and out-buildings, replace any rusty padlocks.
Close gates and repair damaged fences - deterrents are sometimes the best prevention.
Hide or cover bulky items which can't be locked away, such as large gas barbecues and picnic benches.
Lock up ladders and secure wheelie bins - they are perfect for giving burglars a leg up into the rest of your home!

Aviva is currently offering new customers 50% off home insurance when they buy online***
*Aviva claims statistics 2002 - 2011
**Aviva theft claim statistics from January to December 2011
***Available to new customers who have been claim free for at least five years on their existing home insurance policy.

(Reproduced from Aviva.co.uk 9th May 2014)

Gardien Comment: Good to see an Insurance company taking garden security seriously - find the products to protect your outdoor areas at www.garden-security.co.uk

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Safer Neighbourhood officers will be heading out on the beat to host Operation Illuminate events in Calver, Hope Valley.

Officers from the Hathersage and Tideswell Safer Neighbourhood Team will be visiting the Calver Sough Garden Centre and Nursery on Hassop Road in Calver to speak to visitors about shed and garden security.

The Hathersage and Tideswell Safer Neighbourhood Team will be visiting the garden centre on:

Friday, May 2 between 9am and 1pm;
Saturday, May 17 between 9am and 2pm;
Sunday, May 25 between 9am and 2pm.

The team will be encouraging residents and visitors to the garden centre to take steps to better protect themselves and their property from criminals as part of the Operation Illuminate initiative.

The annual drive, which is led by Derbyshire Dales Community Safety Partnership, sees police officers and council staff heading out into local communities to offer crime prevention advice and discounted home security products.

PCSO Anthony Boswell from the policing team said: “It would be great to see as many people as we can at the event and we will be on hand to chat to residents about the simple steps that they can take to protect their property from criminals.

“This is a great opportunity for us to work in partnership with the staff at the garden centre so that we are able to both spread the message of how important garden security is.

“This includes taking steps to increase your garden and shed security by ensuring that out-buildings, sheds and garages are properly secured and that any valuable items are left out of view.”

Increasing home security and investing in items such as spotlights, alarms, door chimes and property marking kits such as SmartWater or Selecta can also help to prevent an opportunist targeting a property.

Discounted home security kits will be sold at the event and can also be purchased from your local police station or council officers as part of the Operation Illuminate campaign. Prices start at just £1.

For more information, call your local Safer Neighbourhood team on 101 or Derbyshire Dales District Council on 01629 761 100

(Reproduced from derbyshirealert.co.uk 1st May 2014)

Gardien Comment: SelectaDNA is amongst a host of quality security products available at www.garden-security.co.uk

Monday, April 14, 2014

Police launch Sheducation campaign in a bid to beat the garden thief

HOMEOWNERS are being urged to keep their garden sheds secure as Gloucester police launch a campaign.

Safer Gloucester is celebrating a further reduction in crime in the city this year but at the same time is launching its latest campaign against shed and garden crime.

The value of property in sheds and garages is more than people think, thieves can target them for gardening tools, power tools, bikes and golf clubs.

Safer Gloucester is asking residents to always remember to put garden tools away at the end of the day and lock them securely in the shed or garage as they could be used to break into the house.

Those without sheds should keep the tools inside their houses.

A good way to keep thieves out is to use nature’s own defence mechanisms to stop intruders, such as a barrier of prickly hedge to protect properties.

Police in Gloucester appealed for information last month after five attempted break-ins at Saintbridge Allotments.

Unknown offenders tried to force entry to sheds on the land, but they did not take anything. They damaged the doors and panes of glass smashed.

Ken Price, chair of Saintbridge Allotments, said: “We have had a spate of break-ins and vandalism in the past but recently it has been fine.

“We are working with the police and community to make sure we don’t get a repeat of this. We are doing something positive and are trying to connect with the schools too.

“People have tried to break into the sheds, but once they gain entrance they find there is not much to take anyway.”

Safer Gloucester will be placing a purpose made shed in Eastgate Shopping Centre for four days from Monday with a display of some of the items people can use to protect their shed.

Afterwards, the shed will move to other prominent locations across the city.

Gloucestershire Constabulary’s chief inspector Neil Smith said: “I urge residents to take every measure to secure their shed and also the contents. A bicycle in particular is a very desirable item and should always be locked – preferably with an alarmed “D” lock even whilst inside a shed or garage. We are delighted at the overall trend in crime reduction again this year but we must not be complacent and should endeavour to take every precaution to deter criminals.”

Top 10 most common items that get stolen from sheds include:

Power tools and drills,

Strimmers,

Lawnmowers

Spades

Shears

Fuel in cans

Bikes

Golf clubs

Garden ornaments

Garden furniture

(Reproduced from Gloucester Citizen, 12th April)

Gardien Comment: In addition to the above, see the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Appeal launched after a unique garden ornament designed by artist Alice Palser was stolen from a garden in Aldington

The owner of a stolen statue depicting a topless woman is appealing for its return.

The bronze garden ornament was taken from a garden in Aldington sometime between Friday, March 28 and Tuesday, April 1.
The statue, which measures 24in x 18in, is a unique piece by the artist Alice Palser.
The owner is keen to see the statue returned
The statue is of a seated topless woman with a drape over her lap.
Now, police are appealing for information about the theft.
A spokesman said: "The ornament has sentimental value to the owner who is anxious to get it returned.
"Police would like to hear from anyone about the theft and anyone who has seen the ornament, or knows of its whereabouts."
Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Maria Hales on 07980 683878.

(Reproduced from kentonline.co.uk 10th April)

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

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Harrogate police urge people to tighten up on garden shed security

Police in Harrogate a urging residents to review their security arrangements to help keep thieves at bay during the summer months.In recent weeks there has been a slight increase in shed burglaries which has resulted in gardening equipment and tools being stolen.
Officers are keen to stress the importance of securing sheds and outbuildings as the weather improves and summer approaches.
Temporary Sgt Tom Barker, of Harrogate police said: At this time of year it is quite common for the police to see an increase in shed break-ins.
Equipment such as strimmers, leaf blowers and chainsaws are attractive to thieves due to their value. They are often easy pickings for criminals, if they are left in sheds or outbuildings in remote or secluded places where thieves are unlikely to be disturbed.
Always move equipment so it is secured away and out of sight. Please take this as a reminder to go and check your shed to ensure you are happy with the security.
For more information about securing your property from thieves, visit the North Yorkshire Police website www.northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk/homesecurity

(Reproduced from Harrogate News, March 28th)

Gardien Comment: There is always an increase in theft from sheds at this time of year. See the article on Shed Security at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/shed-security-print.htm

Monday, March 24, 2014

Police hunt for 8ft garden gnome stolen from Durham Castle

THE CRAZE of stealing garden gnomes has reached new heights with the theft of a rare eight foot example.

Police confirmed today (Monday, March 17) they are looking for a giant gnome stolen from the master’s garden at Durham Castle shortly after midnight, on Saturday.

The illuminated blue "gnome" formed part of Echo of the Lumiere display by Durham University students, which ran until yesterday.

Internationally-renowned artist Goshka Bialek says she is seeing the funny side of it, but wants the gnome back.

Ms Bialek said: “My gnome was very ugly. And that was the point of it. I made it as ugly as I could – to challenge perceptions and provoke debate on gnomes, ugliness, taste and tolerance.

“Some students said it was ugly and shouldn’t be in the master’s garden.

“I said to them many people have gnomes in their garden - and they are very proud of them. And we have to be tolerant. People are entitled to have different tastes.”

Ms Bialek said someone knocked it down on Thursday night and the porters had put it back in place.

But between midnight and 12.30am on Saturday thieves removed the gnome.

Ms Bialek said: “I don’t have any idea who could have taken it. It could be hidden away somewhere.”

Anyone with information should contact Durham Police on 101.

(Reproduced from The Northern Echo, 17th March)

Gardien Comment: The ugly face of crime or the height of cheek?

Burglars Want Your Garden Tools, Aylesbury Vale

The number of burglaries go up in the spring, so police in Aylesbury Vale are trying to tackle that with a 'day of action'.Officers say burglars normally target our homes, but when sheds or other buildings are left open in the warmer weather, they go for those as well.

Garden sheds, outbuildings and garages are a popular target as they probably have expensive items like lawn mowers, hedge cutters, pedal bikes and power tools in them.
Insp James Davies said:

"We aim to raise awareness of outbuilding, garden and shed security and we will be working in partnership with Aylesbury Vale District Council to provide local residents with vital crime prevention advice, to help prevent themselves from becoming a victim of crime during the upcoming spring period.
"I would also like to thank local businesses George Browns Ltd, D & A Sheds, and Preston & Bisset Nurseries for their help in supporting the events.
"In addition to these road shows and events, the neighbourhood teams will be carrying out high visibility patrols in the town and the rural areas. The team will also be carrying out a series of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) operations during the spring period and proactively patrolling burglary hot spot areas to target known offenders.
"We will be about and about, if you have any concerns or just want some advice and information, approach your local neighbourhood officers who will be there to assist you.
"We will also be sending out messages via Thames Valley Alert to residents with crime reduction advice, so I would urge people to sign up."

Here are the events taking place:

Burglary non-dwelling shed road show event, which will run from 8am to 5pm at the Old Gaol, Market Square. Officers will be accompanied by members from the AVDC offering shed crime prevention advice and handing out timer switches.
Crime reduction event, which will run from 8am to 5pm at Rushmere Country Park, Great Brickhill.
Security marking tools event, which run from 10am to 12pm at Haddenham Library, followed by garden centre visits in the local area.
Farm Visits, CESAR marking and patrols in the local area of Winslow from 12pm to 9pm.

The town neighbourhood team will be carrying out the following events:

A mobile police station will be set in the Aylesbury Market Place from 10am to 3pm, offering crime prevention advice.
Crime prevention events from 10am to 3pm at Homebase in Broad Fields Retail Park, B&Q in Vale Hundreds Retail Park and Wickes in Cambridge Close Retail Park.

The neighbourhood teams and ADVC will be hosting some additional events and road shows at garden centres. The teams will be carrying out the following additional events at garden centres:

Wednesday (26/3), World's End Garden Centre, Wendover - 11am to 3pm
Wednesday (2/4), Buckingham Garden Centre, Buckingham - 11am to 3pm
Wednesday (9/4), Homebase, Aylesbury - 11am to 3pm
Wednesday (16/4), B & Q Aylesbury - 11am to 3pm
Wednesday (23/4), Haddenham Garden Centre - 11am to 3pm

And these are some of the tips the police have for you:

Make access to areas where sheds and outbuildings are located as difficult as possible - lock all side and rear gates using a bolt and padlock or hasp and staple lock and make sure fencing/hedging is secure. Prickly plants can be used around the fence line to deter access.
Install passive security lighting in gardens.
Keep sheds, garage and outbuilding locked with good quality locks - padlock alarms are available from hardware shops that sound if any attempt is made to tamper with it.
Consider putting bars on the windows of sheds etc. to prevent break-ins.
Strengthen the security of sheds by reinforcing door hinges, fitting doors with non-returnable screws or coach bolts.
Not leave tools and equipment in gardens but keep them locked away and consider securing these with cables and chains with robust padlocks.
Have power tools, garden implements and pedal cycles security marked with a post code and house

(Reproduced from Mix96 20th March)

Gardien Comment: All the above is very sound advice - quality product solutions can be found at www.garden-security.co.uk )

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Antique Victorian urns stolen from Colwyn Bay garden

AN ANTIQUE Victorian garden urn has been stolen from Colwyn Bay.Police are appealing for information after the theft between 2pm on Sunday, March 9, and Monday, March 10. The large cast iron urn was stolen from the garden of a property on Abergele Road. police spokesperson said: "Due to the weight of the item it is believed that two people would have been needed to move the urn from its location."The antique garden ornament is described as 4ft high with an 18ins diameter. It is daffodil shaped with ridges running down the sides and has a lip around the top edge. It has a concrete base which measures 18ins, which was also taken.
The spokesperson added: "Inquiries into the theft are continuing and there is an appeal to anyone who has information, who witnessed the theft or may have been offered a similar item for sale to contact members of the Investigation Support Team on 101 quoting reference number RC14035771."
Aternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from NorthWalesPioneer, 12th March)

Gardien Comment: Once again we remind you that nothing is too heavy to be stolen. See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-antiques-security.aspx

Saturday, March 8, 2014

‘Beloved’ dog stolen from St Albans garden

Police have released a photo of this “beloved” pet dog that was stolen during a burglary in St Albans on Wednesday.
The theft happened between 9pm on Wednesday, March 5 and 10.30am the following day at an address in Dellfield.
The criminals entered the rear garden and forcibly removed the dog, which is a two-and-a half-year-old male Jack Russell, that was in a shed at the time.
Pc Lee Gough, who is investigating the incident, said: “The owner of the dog has been left devastated by the theft of their beloved pet and I would urge anyone who knows of the dog’s location, or has been offered it for sale, to contact me immediately.
“I would ask anyone who remembers seeing anything unusual or suspicious around the stated times to also contact me as it’s possible you may have information that can assist the investigation and reunite the dog with its rightful owner.”
Anyone with information should contact the non-emergency number 101, or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(Reproduced from hertsad.co.uk 8th March)

Gardien Comment: Sadly there are many reports of animal theft in recent times. Extra care needs to be taken to ensure your animals are safe. See the various advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/garden-security-advice.aspx

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Owners distraught after French bulldog stolen from garden

A French bulldog puppy has been snatched from a garden surrounded by a 20ft wall only a few months after moving in with her new family.
Seven-month-old pup Paris was swiped from the back garden on Commerce Place, Aberdare, while her family were in the house.
Now it is feared the playful pooch has either been sold on or forced to fight against trained canines in illegal “dog-baiting” bouts.
Paris’ owner Claire Dillon said the family are devastated by the crime.
“I had gone inside the house with the kids to watch a helicopter from the window,” Claire, 38, said.
“Paris had only been out there for about ten minutes and she is normally waiting for me at the door.
“As soon as I walked out there, I had a feeling something was wrong.”
Mum-of-four Claire knows that pedigree pets like Paris can fetch up to £1,500 on the black market.
“I can’t believe this has happened to us,” she said.
“It’s unbelievable the way they have taken her.
“There is literally a 20ft wall at the back of the house with 6ft and 7ft fences around the garden.”
And now charity Rhondda Animals in Need has warned stolen dogs may be used as bait for brutal blood sports.
Linda Webb, who has worked at the Penygraig-based charity for 23 years, said: “There have been so many dogs stolen in the area recently. I can’t believe it.”
And Linda advised that dog owners can do simple things to protect their pets.
“It only takes two minutes to steal a dog,” she said.
She advised owners to fit them with a dog tag and not to leave their dogs unattended in the garden.
South Wales Police (SWP) said they are aware of the theft and are urging people to come forward with any information.
“It is obviously distressing to have a loved pet stolen,” an SWP spokesman said.
Paris has a distinctive bald patch near her left rib. Anyone with any information can contact SWP on 101.

(Reproduced from WalesOnline, 27th Feb)

Gardien Comment: Keep them out of your property. See the advice at http://www.garden-security.co.uk/walls-fences-security.aspx

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

£4,000 bike stolen from garden in Taunton

A DISTINCTIVE £4,000 mountain bike has been stolen from a garden in Taunton.

The hand-built bike was taken on Monday (February 10) from Maxwell Street.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said: “Enquiries suggest that the stolen bike has already been sold and we would appeal to anyone who has bought the bike, or seen it being ridden, to contact us.”

It is a full-suspension Specialized mountain bike with a black, white, green, red and blue frame.

It has a white, red and grey seat and various stickers on it including one which says ‘Bike Tart’.

It has blue handlebars and a white Canadian leaf on the brakes. The wheels have a single red spoke with ‘All American Classic’ written on the wheels, hydraulic disc brakes and fox rear suspension.

The spokesman added: “There are some easy steps you can take to secure your garden and reduce theft.

“Restrict access to your garden by using gates on side passages and securing them with strong hinges and a decent padlock, and consider prickly plants within shrubbery to deter thieves.

“Chain bikes and other garden machinery/tools together or secure bikes to a ground anchor in a shed – and make sure the shed is locked securely.”

Anyone with information about the theft should contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101 and quote 14273/14.

Alternatively, phone the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

(Reproduced from ThisistheWestCountry, 14th Feb 2014)

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

Saturday, January 10, 2015

Friday, January 9, 2015

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Friday, May 16, 2014

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Sunday, May 11, 2014

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Aviva's Top Tips to beat the shed burglar

Saturday, May 3, 2014

Monday, April 14, 2014

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Monday, March 24, 2014

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Saturday, March 8, 2014

Thursday, February 27, 2014

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