Police warn of garden thieves

AS SPRING approaches, gardeners are being urged to protect their blooms from green-fingered burglars.

Last year, thieves across Swale targeted hanging baskets on display at homes and commercial buildings.

In one village alone nearly £800 worth of hanging baskets were stolen.

The hanging baskets are worth in the region of £30 to £40 each and it is believed the thieves sell them on to unsuspecting gardeners.

Sergeant Tim Hill from the Swale Community Safety Unit explained: "It might sound a peculiar crime, but historically it has been an issue across Swale and it can be a profitable venture for criminals in the summer months.

"We would urge homeowners to take proactive measures to ensure they don't become victims.

"Even taking the simplest of measures will deter criminals, and in turn potentially prevent a crime taking place."

Police will be attending the Home And Garden Show at Leeds Castle on May 19 to explain the different types of crime prevention that can be used to deter thieves, such as shed alarms.

Advice for gardeners also includes buying lockable hanging baskets, security marking or photographing valuable items and the use of security lighting or CCTV.

(Reproduced from ThisIsKent 9th April)

Gardien Comment:  For full  advice re Garden Security vist www.garden-security.co.uk