Barrow Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership

Going...going..gone!

2012-02-10T16:33:00.001Z

This is the gathering of friends and colleagues today to say goodbye to Dave Coverdale, Barrow's Fire Chief, and the 'old' chair of Barrow Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.

Watch this space to meet Steve Healey, the new Locality Manager for Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, and later this month, Lynda Shaw, the new Chair of Barrow Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership.

See Dave....you're gone already! We'll all miss you, although everyone looks happy on this picture as they wave you goodbye!

South Cumbria Police appeal after series of heating oil thefts

2012-02-10T15:57:00.001Z

Police are appealing for help from the public to tackle a series of heating oil thefts in the south of the county.

Since January 2012, six heating oil thefts have been reported to police from rural areas of South Cumbria from Chapel Stiles to Milnthorpe. Officers have found that thieves are mostly travelling to properties in isolated and rural areas to steal heating oil from storage containers.

Due to the locations of the thefts and the amount of oil stolen, police believe the offenders must be using vehicles that contain large storage tanks, or many smaller containers.

Inspector Rob Lampard from South Cumbria Police said: “We are investigating six reported heating oil thefts and we are appealing for help from the public to trace whoever is responsible.
“We are appealing for people to be vigilant – especially those who live in rural or isolated areas. Check your fuel supplies on a regular basis and secure the cap of the tank so that any disturbance is obvious.
“Generally, people don’t check their oil supplies on a regular basis so often only discover thefts when their heating stops altogether. This is incredibly frustrating for the victims and makes it difficult to establish the exact period when the theft occurred.
“I am appealing for people across South Cumbria to be vigilant. Please report anyone or any vehicles acting suspiciously around isolated premises, make a note of any vehicle registration numbers and phone police. You should dial 999 in an emergency or if you think you are witnessing a crime in action, or ring Cumbria Police on 101 to pass non urgent information.
“Finally, I would appeal for anyone who is offered, or knows of anyone trying to sell heating oil from a non official supply to come forward. You can pass information to us anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Remains found in December 2000 have been identified

2012-02-10T15:44:00.006Z

In December 2000 human remains were discovered on Annaside Beach, Bootle and after extensive enquiries, they have now been identified as missing person, John Crawford.

Following the discovery of the human remains on 15th December 2000, an extensive investigation was launch to identify the deceased.

The examination of the remains involved a Home Office pathologist, a senior forensic anthropologist and the Forensic Science Service. A full DNA profile of the deceased was obtained. Cumbria Constabulary liaised extensively with the National Missing Persons Bureau but all enquiries to identify the deceased, over a number of months and years, proved negative.

In the autumn of 2011 the Garda, Ireland’s National Police Service, obtained the personal belongings of John Crawford, who had been missing from Dublin since 17th October 2000. From these belongings it was possible to obtain a DNA. Through the links established between The Garda, NPIA and Interpol the two DNA profiles were compared and a potential match identified.

Cumbria Constabulary was informed and DNA identification was confirmed. The deceased is believed to be John Crawford who was born on 2nd March 1972, who was from the Tallaght, Dublin.

Mr Crawford’s family have been informed by detectives from the Garda’s cold case review team, and enquiries are being conducted by the Garda on behalf of Cumbria Constabulary and the West Cumbria Coroner, who was informed of the circumstances.
Due to this new evidence, the Coroner will apply for the inquest into the deceased to be re-opened. From all of the information available to date there is nothing to suggest the death of John Crawford was suspicious.

Detective Sergeant Colin Edgar, from the Major Investigation Team, said: “From the recent work of the Garda Serious Crime Review Team, in liaison with Cumbria Constabulary we have been able to identify the remains and bring closure to a family.
“Without the hard work, time and dedication of the officers in the Garda Serious Crime Review Team and NPIA missing person bureau these remains would not have been identified.”

Re-Appeal for Information on Scott Fletcher as Daughter’s Birthday Approaches

2012-02-09T15:07:00.001Z

As Lucie Fletcher turns five, she will face her first birthday without the presence of her Dad next Tuesday, 14th February.

27-year-old Scott Fletcher was last seen on May 11th at around 8.20pm in the lay-by opposite the Jet garage on the A181 at Wheatley Hill in Durham.

The search for Scott has extended to the Durham, Cumbria and Liverpool areas, as it is believed he has connections there.

Scott’s ex-partner and mother of Lucie, Shelley Marshall, said: “Every day is difficult when we do not know where Scott is. Lucie is distraught and misses her Dad very much. She asks for him all the time and will no doubt be upset on her birthday as she wants to see him.
“We know that Scott would want to be with his daughter on her birthday and we really need some answers as to where he is.”

Scott’s Mum, Julie Fletcher, said: “Scott is a hands-on Father and Lucie still asks for her Daddy. It is out of character for Scott to miss so many milestones such as Christmas and his Father’s and sisters’ birthdays. We desperately hope that Scott gets in touch for Lucie’s birthday.”

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Green said: “Scott’s family have suffered immensely since he went missing and it is especially heartbreaking as his daughter Lucie is only a young girl and she cannot understand why her Dad did not visit her at Christmas or why he will not visit on her birthday.
"As Scott’s whereabouts remain unclear, his family continue to suffer and as more time passes we become increasingly concerned. I am certain that people locally can help us get the answers that Scott’s family so desperately need, and if necessary, those with information can contact police in confidence.”

Anyone with information regarding Scott’s whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Chief Inspector Jon Green of Hartlepool Police on 01642 302110.

You can also give information anonymously by ringing the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Road conditions improve but police advise care

2012-02-09T14:55:00.001Z

The road conditions across the County are improving but the police are asking drivers to remain cautious and drive with care.

There have been over 100 reported road traffic incidents across the County today, and fortunately no-one was seriously injured. The incidents ranged from multiply cars skidding off the road to collisions.

Vast majority of the cars have been recovered now and all of the roads are now open. The A66 reopened both ways and the speed restriction on the M6 has been lifted.

Police are still advising drivers to travel with care and be aware that some roads, especially minor routes, may still be icy. Drive according to the conditions, reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from the car in front.

To keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

For the latest traffic updates, please visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map

97 reported traffic collisions this morning

2012-02-09T10:53:00.001Z

Police continue to warn drivers about icy conditions as since approximately 5 am this morning (9 February 2012) there have been 97 reported traffic collisions. No one has been seriously injured but police are continuing to warn people to take extreme care when driving on the County's roads.

The following is a snapshot of the incidents which have occurred across the county:

At 04:56 am a lorry jack-knifed near to the Stainmore Cafe, Kirby Stephen, the driver was not injured and the road was cleared at 06:14 am.
At 06:48 am at Haile, Egremont a Seat Altea driven by a female from Egremont and a Ford Focus driven by a male from Whitehaven were involved in a collision due to the icy conditions, no one was injured.
At 07:05 am on the A684 Kendal, multiple cars skidded off the road.
At 08:05 am on the A66 Eastbound Penrith near to the Newbiggin Junction there have been multiple cars involved in a collision. No one has been seriously injured, but police officers have closed the road at Darce Road and at the start of the duel carriageway at Kirkby Thore while they deal with the incidents. No further details are available at this time.

All of the County's roads has been affected by icy and the police are warning people to take care on every road. If your journey is not essential, then please do not drive. If you do have to travel, please take extreme care when driving, slow down and keep a substantial breaking distance from the car in front.

The A66 from Stainmore remains closed, the M6 between junction 36 and 38 is only passable with care and a 20 MPH speed limit has been issued, the A590 is passable with extreme care, but there have been wagon's which have jack-knifed at Lindale Hill, which is blocking traffic.

The Met Office have an Amber weather warning in place for ice across much of Cumbria. Throughout the course of today areas of rain and drizzle will edge further south to affect the whole region. Just about anywhere is at risk of icy conditions, especially in more rural areas.

Local residents are asked to take care when walking on pavements, as these are just as susceptible to freezing.

To keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

Tune in to your local BBC Radio station to keep up to date with road and school closures and other community issues: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio/stations/cumbria

You can also contact the Cumbria Highways Hotline on 0845 609 6609.

For the latest traffic updates, please visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map

Drivers urged to take care on icy roads

2012-02-09T09:29:00.004Z

Drivers are being urged to take care this morning on the County’s roads with hazardous conditions being caused by ice.

Rain fall overnight and into this morning as caused thick ice on the County’s roads, with over 60 reported road traffic incidents so far across the county.

Police are urging drivers to slow down, drive with extreme care and, if possible, delay journeys.

The A66 from Stainmore is closed due to the conditions and the M6 and A684 is currently extremely hazardous and only passable with extreme care.

Local residents are asked to take care when walking on pavements, as these are just as susceptible to freezing.

To keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

Tune in to your local BBC Radio station to keep up to date with road and school closures and other community issues: http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/cumbria

You can also contact the Cumbria Highways Hotline on 0845 609 6609.

For the latest traffic updates, please visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map

Safety advice for motorists
• Plan your journey in advance
• Check local and national weather forecasts and tune into local radio stations to check on road conditions and closures
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive and ensure you have a charged mobile phone with you
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade
• Clear your windows and mirrors fully before you set off and carry a screen scraper and de-icer

If you have an accident, break-down or become stuck in bad weather conditions:
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call
• On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone because the emergency services and breakdown recovery services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder
• If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you

Vehicle maintenance:
• Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow – remember also to clear your vehicle roof of compacted snow in case it dislodges while you drive, as this could be dangerous to other road users
• Keep your battery fully charged
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer
• Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order
• Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure. Consider changing to high performance winter tyres.

Drive according to weather conditions:
• Allow extra time and distance to brake as it can take ten times longer to stop in wet or icy conditions
• Adapt your driving behaviour. Keep in mind the decreased visibility and changing road conditions.
• Slow down and avoid sudden or jerky movements
• When driving on ice or snow use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Be wary of satellite navigation systems as they tend to direct you over high rural roads that are likely to be closed or particularly hazardous in winter
• Do not assume that pedestrians have seen you. They may be elderly, young or not be able to hear you
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads if the water seems too deep
• Drive slowly through water in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling
• Test your brakes when you have driven through a flood before you drive again at normal speed

Advice on dealing with the thaw:
As temperatures begin to drop, the snow and ice that has built up will begin to thaw and melt. This will make driving conditions treacherous as water sits on top of ice, and again when melt-water refreezes overnight. Drive according to the conditions.

Pipes that have burst as the water inside them freezes and expands will begin to thaw out and may lead to flooding in properties and homes.

Check the Traffic Link section of Cumbria Constabulary’s website (www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic) which is designed to provide information about the current state of Cumbria’s roads and the immediate surrounding areas in relation to road traffic collisions, weather, and delays as a result of incidents and congestion. The information provided is sourced from police and the Highways Agency and is updated every 10 minutes.

Police ask residents to check sheds & outhouses in hunt for missing Mark

2012-02-09T09:14:00.000Z

Police officers in Ulverston are continuing their efforts to locate Mark Westall who has been missing from home for more than two weeks.

Officers began to scale down the large area searches at the end of last week but officers remain dedicated to the enquiry in the hope of reuniting Mark with his family.

Police officers are re-visiting North Lonsdale Road and the surrounding area over the next few days to conduct leaflet drops with local residents and businesses, urging people to check in any sheds, garages or outhouses in case Mark is sheltering.

Sergeant Mark Lyon Maris said: “Our search for Mark is continuing and we haven’t given up hope of finding him safe.
"We have covered a lot of ground in our efforts to find him over the last 17 days and there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to try and establish his last known movements and any potential places he may have visited.
“We would continue to appeal to local people to be vigilant and keep Mark in mind – if you think you have seen someone matching his description, call us immediately. We are also asking Mark’s neighbours and local businesses to check in sheds and outhouses in case Mark is sheltering somewhere close to home.
“We remain in close contact with Mark’s family and are supporting them as best we can. Mark, if you are reading or listening to this, please contact your family to let them know you are safe. You are not in any trouble – your family are extremely worried about you and want to know that you are safe.”

Mark is described as white, 5' 6'' tall, of a stocky build with dark brown, collar length wavy hair. He was last seen wearing an orange jacket and blue trousers, with a light coloured sweatshirt worn under his jacket.

If you think you have seen Mark or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact Ulverston police on 101 immediately.

Meet your community police officer

2012-02-08T16:46:00.004Z

Local community police officers will be ready to meet and greet the shoppers of Barrow on Dalton Road next Monday lunchtime, 13th February.

Officers from Barrow's Community Policing Team, along with the Borough Council's Neighbourhood Wardens and the Territorial Army will be on

Dalton Road opposite the Preston Street junction,

from 11am until 2pm.

Please come along and meet your local police community team

Freebies and information will be available on the day.

If you bring your bike along the Neighbourhood Wardens will mark it for FREE.

Are you smarter than the scammers?

2012-02-07T14:07:00.000Z

Cumbria County Council's trading standards will be cracking down on scam correspondence this month with a Scamnesty campaign. The public are being encouraged to drop off dodgy letters or emails at collection points dotted all around the county so they can be properly investigated.

The drive against scammers will run throughout the month of February and is aimed to raise public awareness of the perils of engaging with companies or individuals who prey on some of the most vulnerable people in society. Scams can take many forms, from fake lottery and prize draw wins, to miracle health cures or ‘get rich quick’ investment cons.

Information collected at the designated bins can help trained trading standards officers obtain valuable intelligence which might assist in preventing more people becoming victims. As well as scam mail which drops through the letterbox, people can also put their scam emails into one of the collection boxes, or alternatively they can report scam emails online at www.actionfraud.org.uk/scam-emails. Consumers can be assured that all material will be treated in confidence.

Local drop off points will be situated in the following locations throughout February:
The Co-op, Market Street, Dalton
Morrisons, The Strand, Barrow
Age UK, Abbey Road, Barrow

Think Jessica
Cumbria Trading Standards also supports the ‘Think Jessica’ poster campaign. The campaign is named after a particularly tragic victim of scam mail. Jessica Looke was in her 70s when she was first scammed into believing that she had won large cash prizes. Her name was put on a 'suckers' list, by the scammer who sent the first scam letter. This meant that her details were sent to criminals all over the world. No one could convince Jessica that the 30 letters received every day were scams, and soon she was sending nearly all of her pension each week to keep up with their demands. It is believed that Jessica sent thousands of pounds to the scammers over five years. Jessica's daughter Marilyn Baldwin, was left horrified watching her mother suffer at the hands of criminals. Jessica sadly died aged 83 and needless to say never received the windfall she was conned into believing she would get.

Jessica's death certificate said the cause of death was pneumonia - but Marilyn blames the mental torment the scammers inflicted on her over the years for damaging her health.

Cumbria Trading Standards hope that the Scamnesty Bins and Think Jessica posters will raise awareness of postal scams and are advising people to think before sending money to claim fake prizes from bogus lotteries, competitions and catalogues. The poster is also designed to appeal to the families of victims and directly to the victims themselves so that they recognise that what they are doing is responding to a scam.

Angela Jones, Cumbria County Council's Trading Standards Manager, said:
"Scam mail can leave people in debt and misery and many of the victims are particularly vulnerable, for example those with age-related declining mental health and dementia, the recently bereaved or people who are socially isolated or over trusting. The cost to the victim can be thousands of pounds, but the emotional effects can be even more devastating. People need to be aware that scam mail can be very convincing and scammers can be very smart – we want Cumbrian residents to prove they’re smarter and bin the scam mail."

Cllr Gary Strong, Cumbria County Council's Cabinet member responsible for trading standards, said:
"I support this Scamnesty campaign and urge residents to help protect vulnerable neighbours or relatives from scam mail. If someone you know is receiving large volumes of scam letters or mail then report the matter to trading standards or the police and help disrupt these criminals who prey on our communities."

For general consumer advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 or to report a fraud contact Action Fraud UK on 0300 123 2040.

Cumbria police pledge support to National Internet Safety Day

2012-02-07T09:34:00.002Z

How do you talk to your child about the difference between real and online friends, sexual experimentation and pornography on the internet, or what to do if something goes wrong?

Parents and across Cumbria can be given the answers to these and other difficult questions vital to bringing up children in the 21st Century during an online web chat being hosted by Cumbria Constabulary to mark Safer Internet Day today, 7th February 2012.

The dedicated day-long webchat window will be hosted on the Constabulary’s website, inviting local people to log on and ask any questions about how to stay safe online.

This chat will also be linked into the Constabulary’s Twitter account with officers inviting the tweeting community to direct questions about Internet safety to Cumbria police using #cumbriasafeonline. All questions and responses added on Twitter using this hashtag will automatically appear on the Constabulary’s webchat window.

Cumbria Constabulary’s Chief Constable, Stuart Hyde, is renowned as one of the UK’s leading lights in cybercrime within his role as President of the Society for the Policing of Cyberspace (POLCYB).

He said: “Your child being targeted by a criminal is every parent’s nightmare which is why it is so important to get up to speed with the risks that are out there and the simple steps that can be taken to protect children online.
“The internet opens up a world of opportunity along with a new world of risk. The online world is continually developing so it is important that parents feel comfortable enough to ask questions about technology so that they understand and are able to provide advice to help their children stay safe online.
“Cumbria Constabulary recognises the developing threats that the world of the Internet can pose to the people of Cumbria and we are dedicated to enhancing our own understanding so we can stay one step ahead of criminals.
“I hope that parents and youngsters use the opportunity to ask any questions they may have so that, together, we can try and prevent any young people falling foul of online criminals in Cumbria.”

Cumbria Constabulary will also be using its social networking accounts to promote national Safer Internet Day competitions, inviting young people to log onto the Safer Internet Day website to enter their posters and videos for a chance to win a host of prizes - including a trip to Romania!

The Constabulary will be encouraging people to log on and view a new TV-style show created by the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre, ‘The Parents’ and Carers’ Guide to the Internet’. This short video takes parents on a journey to the 1950’s and back, exploring the challenges of parenting in an online age.

While the risks to children may be different to those of the 1950s, parenting skills are still as relevant as they ever were. Talking to children about their online lives is one of the best things parents can do to protect them so they can enjoy the opportunities offered by the internet. The show sets out simple practical ideas for parents to make sure their children are protected from risks – which range from cyberbullying to grooming by those who wish them harm – as well as a few surprises about what children get up to online.

With 70% of parents of 12-15 year olds saying they know less about the internet than their children, the CEOP Centre are encouraging parents and carers to not be intimidated by how their children are using technology and to talk about any internet related concerns they have, in conjunction with teachers and schools across the country.

On 7 February, CEOP launches a new suite of resources to make it easier than ever for parents Cumbria to be as good parents online as they are offline. These include:
• ‘The Parents’ and Carers’ Guide to the Internet’, made with the support of CEOP’s partner Visa Europe and which takes an entertaining and light hearted look at what it’s like to bring up children in the online age – featuring practical tips and insights into what your child is up to online. Visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents from 7 February to view the show.
• A restyled parents’ area at www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents with updated advice and guidance for parents of children of any age. Thinkuknow is CEOP’s education and awareness raising programme. It’s a great place to start exploring online safety issues with your child.

Peter Davies, Chief Executive of the CEOP Centre, said: “Technology has transformed people’s lives, collectively and individually – in the way we work, communicate and socialise. It is an integral part of modern childhood.
“But the principles of good parenting, in terms of playing an active role in a child’s life and instilling good behaviour haven’t changed. Children have always taken risks but their lives online offer new opportunities for this, and there are some people who will try to exploit the perceived anonymity offered by the internet.
“We appreciate that some parents may feel daunted by the pace at which technology is changing and how its use has become second nature to their children. Our new film guide and other resources will make it easier for parents to take that step towards discussing issues that are crucial to parenting today in a way that is age appropriate.”

CEOP works with a range of industry partners including Microsoft. A new, customised ‘ClickCEOP’ browser developed by Microsoft for Internet Explorer 9 will be available from 7 February. This provides users with the opportunity to customise their browser so they can get direct access to CEOP’s advice pages, as well as being able to report inappropriate contact with their child. There are also links organisations such as the Internet Watch Foundation, Get Safe Online and Beatbullying. The browser is available to download at www.thinkuknow.co.uk/parents/browser-parents.

CCTV appeal to catch serial charity box thief

2012-02-07T09:19:00.001Z

POLICE in Lancashire have issued CCTV images of an elderly man they need the public’s help to identify after at least a dozen charity boxes were stolen from shops across Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire.

The offences have taken place between July 2009 when the Royal National Lifeboat Institution charity box was targeted at the Barclays Bank in Carnforth and most recently on 27th January 2012 when a Childline charity box was stolen from Barclays Bank in Ingleton, North Yorkshire. There was also a spate of offences at Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria in November 2011.

Police believe all the incidents are linked and that the person responsible may be using public transport to travel between the various crime scenes.

The man is described as white and aged in his 60s. He is believed to be around 5ft 6inches or 5ft 7inches tall with receding dark hair and usually wears glasses.

He is often captured on CCTV wearing the same medium length camel coloured coat and has previously worn woollen hats, and shirts underneath a jumper.

PC Ben Hanley from Lancashire Police said: “This is a despicable crime and I would urge anybody that recognises this man or with any information about the offences to contact Lancashire Police on 101.”

People with information can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ . No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Details of the charity boxes stolen are below.

Lancashire
1st July 2009 – Barclays Bank, Carnforth (Royal National Lifeboat Institution)
22nd November 2011 – Harris Pantry, Morecambe (MenCap)
10th December 2011 – Post Office, Scorton (North West Air Ambulance)
17th December 2011 – Cabus Garage, Preston (Help for Heroes)
21st December 2011 – Co-op Travel, Poulton-le-Fylde (MenCap)
21st December 2011 – Booths, Poulton-le-Fylde (Trinity Hospice)

North Yorkshire
6th September 2011 – Barclays Bank, High Bentham (MacMillan Cancer)
23rd November 2011 – HSBC Bank, High Bentham (NSPCC)
23rd November 2011 – Post Office, High Bentham (Bentham Christmas Lights Appeal)
27th January 2012 – Barclays Bank, Ingleton (Childline)

Cumbria
14th November 2011 – HSBC Bank, Kirkby Lonsdale (Poppy Appeal)
14th November 2011 – NatWest, Kirkby Lonsdale (Poppy Appeal)
11th November 2011 – Post Office, Kirkby Lonsdale (Unknown)

Crime figures for Barrow

2012-02-06T14:09:00.003Z

For anyone who is interested in figures here is the crime picture for Barrow in numbers!

When we look at crime figures we usually compare a period this year with the same period in the previous year. When we are looking at crime trends we tend to look at figures over a 3 year period. It is also worht knowing that when we say 'this year' we mean this financial year which runs from 1st April one year to 31st March the following year.

All these figures below are comparing the crime figures for April 2011-December 2011 with the same period the year before, namely April 2010-December 2010.

*The increase in violent crime is broken down into various sub-categories. The category 'assault without injury' showed an increase of 48 incidents. The category 'harassment and public order' had an increase of 27 incidents. The other categories showed variations of between 1 and 5 incidents.

Hate Crime......
We have seen a reduction in Hate Crime but we know that this does not necessarily mean that there has been a reduction in reality. If anyone has been a victim of Hate Crime we would urge them to report it. You can report Hate Crime to the police using the non-emergency number 101. You can also report incidents via the independent Crimestoppers charity if you want to report a crime but would like to remain anonymous on 0800 555 111.
In an emergency you should aways ring 999.
And if you are wondering what Hate Crime is......
"A hate incident is where the victim or any other person perceives prejudice or hate to be based on someone’s:

disability
race
religion or belief
sexual orientation
gender or gender identity"

Examples of hate crime are:

spitting
physical attacks
verbal abuse
damage to property
offensive letters, leaflets, emails and texts
bullying and threats
abusive gestures

Some incidents are crimes and will be prosecuted. The classification will in no way minimise the seriousness with which police will deal with your complaint.

Anyone can be a victim of a hate crime or incident. If you think that an event – however minor – shows hatred towards disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or transgender identity, you should report it. You can report in the same manner as any other incident.

The information above can also be found on Cumbria Police's website and the following link will take you to their page on Hate Crime where there is more information on how and where you can report it: http://www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/reporting-a-crime/hate-crime-and-incidents

The figures above do not include figures for domestic violence which I will post separately next week.

If you have any comments or questions then please feel free to leave them on this blog or get in touch via e-mail: rrawlings@barrowbc.gov.uk or phone us up on: 01229 876475.

Kind regards, Rebecca

Police are investigating after an armed robbery occurred in Barrow yesterday afternoon

2012-02-06T12:40:00.004Z

Just after 3.30pm on Sunday 5 February 2012, police were called to Marsh Street Stores, Barrow, after receiving reports that a robbery had taken place inside the premises.

A lone female shop assistant was threatened with a knife by a man who demanded money from her. He made off with approximately £200 in bank notes.

He is described as white, between 5’9” and 6’0” tall, in his early thirties and of medium build.

Detective Sergeant John Dilks said: “A full investigation is underway to trace the man responsible for this particularly nasty robbery.
“Fortunately, nobody was injured during the incident but naturally, the woman who was threatened with a knife has been traumatised by her ordeal.
“We are very keen to speak to anyone who was in the area of Marsh Street Stores on Sunday afternoon. Did you see someone watching the shop prior to going inside? Or did you see someone running from the shop?
“We are particularly keen to speak to two teenage boys who entered the store around 3.15pm. We really need them to come forward as we believe they may be key witnesses in our enquiry.
“The local community are all feeling the effects of this robbery and I am appealing to them to please come forward if they have any information.
“I also would appeal to any local shopkeepers to think back. If you think you may have had a man in your store that matches the description of the person we are looking for and who may have bought something either yesterday or this morning using a large quantity of notes, please contact us.”

Anyone with information that they think could help police is urged to contact Barrow CID on 101 or provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers will not ask for your name and it is a charity, completely independent from the police.

Derbyshire couple sentenced for defrauding elderly mother’s care account of £30k

2012-02-06T09:48:00.005Z

A 60 year old woman was sentenced alongside her husband in Preston Crown Court on Friday 3 February for defrauding her elderly mother from Barrow-in-Furness out of almost £30,000 that was provided for her care.

The Judge handed 60 year old Janet Anne Lakhani of Snitterton Road, Matlock, Derbyshire a 36 week prison sentence which is suspended for two years, alongside her husband, 50 year old Amyn Abdullah Hasham Lakhani of the same address who was handed the same punishment. They were both also given a two year community order and 200 hours unpaid community work.

The sentencing follows a complex investigation that took place over the course of twelve months by financial investigators from Cumbria Constabulary. It began after Cumbria County Council failed to receive sufficient financial returns to show where the money they provided for the care of Mrs Lakhani’s mother was being spent. Mrs Lakhani’s mother was aged 86 and based in Barrow-in-Furness in 2008 when Cumbria County Council began the independent payments for her care.

A criminal investigation undertaken by Cumbria Constabulary uncovered evidence that Mr & Mrs Lakhani had created false invoices and made fraudulent withdrawals from her mother’s care account to the value of £29,671.83. Officers also discovered that the couple had applied for credit cards in her mother’s name and run up balances of £17,000.

They were arrested on 15 March 2011 and later charged. Consequently, the couple pleaded guilty on 21 October 2011 to two charges - fraud by false representation to gain £29,671.83 and, conceal/ disguise/ convert/ transfer/ remove criminal property, namely £29,671.83 by means of cash withdrawals, money transfers, cheque and card payments.

DC Cath Rogerson said: “This was a complex and challenging investigation that focused on funds that were provided for the care of an elderly and vulnerable woman from Barrow-in-Furness.
“Suspicions were raised after Cumbria County Council failed to receive sufficient returns on funds that were provided for the independent care of Mrs Lakhani’s mother.
“Our enquiries revealed that sadly, the elderly woman’s own daughter and her husband - Mr and Mrs Lakhani - had fraudulently obtained almost £30,000 from the care account. Further inquiries showed that they used this money to fund their own lavish lifestyles rather than investing it in the care of a relative who needed it.
“A Proceeds of Crime order was also made and the £29,671.83 will be paid back to Cumbria County Council within the next 28 days.
“Police, along with partner agencies, are dedicated to protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities. We will do everything we can to keep them safe and will pursue those who target them and bring them to justice before the courts. Cumbria Constabulary is also committed to tracing assets belonging to the defendants so that they can be used to pay back victims of crime.”

Cumbria Police pledge to ‘Stand by’ people with a learning disability

2012-02-03T10:03:00.004Z

Cumbria Police today signed up to Mencap’s ‘Stand by me’ police promise to show their commitment to ending hate crime against people with a learning disability.

Mencap launched the ‘Stand by me’ campaign during Learning Disability Week 2010 and has called on police services to commit to a police promise that will help make sure people with a learning disability can live their lives free from the fear of crime.

The ‘Stand by me’ charter consists of ten points of best practice that will complement their existing work to support people with a learning disability. This has included working with Eden Mencap and People First to host a Hate Crime Conference, which focussed on disability hate crime. This is due to be replicated countywide in the spring. Smaller workshops have also taken place to identify hate crime and the process in place for reporting incidents, and trainee police officers regularly complete projects with local care homes and charities to ensure they understand the issues faced by people with a learning disability.

Alongside the policing promise Mencap will work with officers to develop practical guidance and spell out the adjustments they need to make to sure they can support victims with a learning disability.

ACC Michelle Skeer

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “It is the job of the police to protect the most vulnerable members of our community, and by signing up to Mencap’s ‘Stand by me’ pledge, we can make sure our service is tailored to the needs of people with a learning disability.
“We don’t want anyone to suffer in silence, so if you or anyone you know has been a victim of hate crime, then contact police immediately, so that we can support you and bring offenders to justice.”

David Congdon, Mencap’s head of campaigns and policy, said: “Many police services are doing good work, and their response is getting better. Other services are still failing to support victims of disability hate crime. Through the ‘Stand by me campaign’ we want to make sure that all police services are following the example set by the best services. We welcome Cumbria Constabulary's commitment to constantly strive to uphold these standards and help end disability hate crime in a generation.”

For more information on the 'Stand by me' campaign and charter, and to show your support, www.mencap.org.uk/standbyme

Birmingham loan shark jailed after failing to pay back to the courts

2012-02-03T09:48:00.003Z

A convicted loan shark has been sentenced to two years in prison after falling to pay back the cash he had profited illegally.

Hudson Obetoh, 54 of Sutton Coldfield was ordered to pay back the full amount he made through the illegal business to the courts at a hearing in June 2010. This totalled more than £163,000. He was warned that failure to pay would leave him facing a jail sentence.

However having paid back less than £7000, he appeared again at Birmingham Magistrates Court last week and was ordered to serve 726 days.

Obetoh ran ‘Cash Operators’ on Lozells Road in Aston. When officers from the England Illegal Money Lending Team, which is hosted by Birmingham City Council, searched the business in September 2008, they found loan agreements and payment records along with a passport, computer, camera and MP3 player, all of which belonged to Obetoh’s customers.

A subsequent search of his home found £6,500 in cash as well as more items belonging to his customers including passports, travel documents, computers and jewellery.

Obetoh would confiscate his customers’ passports as security for the loans. He would then charge them £35 to take them out of the bank vault; despite the fact they were just kept in his home. He even refused to return one woman’s passport after she had repaid her loan, as her husband had not yet paid off his £1000 loan.

Obetoh was convicted of charges of deception, acquiring criminal property in 2009 and given a 12 month suspended sentence for the first two offences and a 22 week suspended sentence for the later, along with a 200 hour community service order.

Councillor Neil Eustace, Chair of Birmingham City Council’s Public Protection Committee, said: “Loan sharks will not be tolerated in Birmingham, as this case exemplifies. We will continue to tackle those who cause fear and misery in our communities and would always encourage people to steer clear of these criminals at all costs. We would urge anyone who has fallen prey to a loan shark or knows of any illegal money lending activity which is taking place to contact the England Illegal Money Lending Team in the strictest confidence on 0300 555 2222”

Police searching for missing Ulverston man turn to online community for help

2012-02-01T15:02:00.000Z

Police officers supporting family members in the search for missing Mark Westall have turned to the online community for help.

Mark Westall

Officers in Ulverston, Barrow and the South Lakes area have been searching for 44 year old Mr Westall on behalf of his family for 8 days and, as the search continues today, they have turned to their Twitter followers and Facebook friends for help.

Today’s search is concentrating on the area of the disused railway line just north of Plumpton House in Ulverston after it was confirmed that a jacket discovered there by the Duddon-in-Furness Mountain Rescue Team dog yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 31 January) belonged to Mark.

Kevin Spedding who is the policing Inspector for the Ulverston area said: “Our priority over the last week has been to find Mark safe and well so that he can be reunited with his friends and family. Our efforts today centre around the Plumpton area where a team of around 15 officers from Cumbria Constabulary and British Transport Police are thoroughly searching the area after Mark’s jacket was discovered in the area.
“Mark has been without money, a change of clothes or his medication for a week now which adds to his family’s worry about his safety and wellbeing.

“Mark – you are not in trouble with the police and you haven’t done anything wrong. Your parents and friends are so worried about you and have asked us to help them find you. Please, if you see this, contact your mum or your family so that they know you are safe.”

Police officers have turned to Twitter to boost their appeal and are asking local people to help them start ‘trending’ #helpfindmark.

Inspector Spedding continued: “Over the last week we have been searching, issuing posters and speaking to local residents in a bid to establish Mark’s whereabouts and despite some information coming into us from the public, we are yet to find him.
“We hope that if local people start re-tweeting our appeals then this additional branch of our search will help to spread the word and generate more information from the public. Hopefully this will help us to reunite Mark with his family.”

He is described as white, 5' 6'' tall, of a stocky build with dark brown, collar length wavy hair. He was last seen wearing an orange jacket and blue trousers, with a light coloured sweatshirt worn under his jacket.
If you think you have seen Mark or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact Ulverston police on 101 immediately.

UPDATE: Appeal to trace missing Ulverston man

2012-01-26T13:22:00.000Z

We posted an appeal for help in tracing Mark Westall yesterday. Since then, a witness has come forward with a potential sighting of Mark yesterday afternoon in Barrow.

It is believed that he got on a bus from Barrow Town Hall which took him to Barrow Railway Station, this was some time between 2 pm and 4 pm.

The police are appealing for anyone who may have sighted Mark around this time to come forward.

It is a couple of days now since Mark should have taken his medication and his family are very concerned that his condition will quickly deteriorate without this medication, and again anyone with any information is urgently requested to get in touch with Ulverston police by telephoning 101.

To give infomation without saying who you are, please ring the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Barrow CDRP latest Strategic Assessment

2012-01-25T15:08:00.000Z

Every year Barrow Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership must carry out a review (strategic assessment) of crime and disorder across the Borough of Barrow.

This year it has been done by Cumbria County Council alongside the Joint Needs Assessment and the other Strategic Assessments for the other districts in Cumbria. Lots of the information collated as part of our assessment is also collected as part of other assessments so it is logical for all of them to be done by the same team of people.

The Barrow-in-Furness Summary is a summary of all the information for the Borough of Barrow.
The Technical Report contains all the statistics for the county - these are also broken down to district level and include figures for Barrow.

On the same page that all these links take you to, you will see Cumbria Community Safety Atlas which are maps of Cumbria with various crime related information on. There are also instructions which are worth reading before you have a look at the maps!

We will use this assessment in the setting of our Plan for the coming year 2012-13. Once we have the plan, as in previous years, we will be asking for your feedback and thoughts.

If you have any questions in the meantime then please feel free to get in touch as always.

Kind regards, Rebecca
01229 876475
242-244 Dalton Road
Barrow. LA14 2JQ
E-mail: rrawlings@barrrowbc.gov.uk

Cumbria Police Authority Wants Your Views on the Police Budget Setting Process

2012-01-25T14:15:00.000Z

Every year Cumbria Police Authority sets its annual budget and the budget for policing services across the county. In total we spend around £100m every year, which mainly comes from government grants and council tax.

The Police Authority has the task of setting the annual budget in advance, and must make sure that the cost of providing police services sits within the income we expect to receive.

This year, we have to decide whether to take an extra grant from the Government in exchange for freezing the amount of council tax that each household in Cumbria pays.

On the face of it, this seems like a great idea, but the grant will only be paid to us for one year and the Police Authority would then need to try and recoup that money in following years by raising council tax more than usual.

This would create problems, as there is a limit to how much council tax can be raised every year, so if we accept the grant now, we may not be able to recoup that money in future years, which would mean that policing might have to be cut by up to £1million on top of the £18m we already have to save.

Police Authority members have a difficult choice to make, but they think that it is most important to make sure police services are protected. This would mean increasing Council Tax.

What does this mean for you?

If we don’t accept the government grant next year we will need to increase council tax in 2012/13 and we will need to decide how much the increase should be.
The amount of increase would depend on what band of council tax your property is in.

If we do accept the government grant next year, the police authority element of the council tax will be frozen for a year, meaning your council tax will remain the same in 2012/13. However, council tax would then potentially need to increase by a larger amount in 2013/14.

We want to hear your views on the proposals

Please feedback by 31st January 2012 all feedback will then be submitted to the Police Authority for their consideration in making their final decision on the Police Budget.

• Email us at policeauthority@cumbria.police.uk

• Write to us at Budget Feedback, Cumbria Police Authority, Carleton Hall, Penrith, CA10 2AU

We're giving you the chance to have your say on the difficult budget decisions facing Cumbria Police Authority using a new online tool called 'Your Police Budget'. Your Police Budget puts you in charge of deciding how much to spend on different policing activities. To have a go please visit our website http://www.cumbriapoliceauthority.org.uk/community-engagement-activity/budget-consultation

Appeal to trace missing Ulverston man

2012-01-25T11:27:00.001Z

Police are appealing from help from the public to trace a missing man from Ulverston.

44 year old Mark Westall, of North Lonsdale Road, Ulverston was last seen at 9.30pm on Monday 23rd January 2012 on North Lonsdale Road in the town.

He is described as white, 5' 6'' tall, of a stocky build with dark brown, collar length wavy hair. He was last seen wearing an orange jacket and blue trousers, with a light coloured sweatshirt worn under his jacket.

Police and Mr Westall’s family are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare due to his sudden disappearance and because it is believed he has no money with him. However, he is believed to have a Stagecoach bus pass.

Police are appealing to Mark to contact them or his family to let them know he is safe. Any members of the public who believe they see a man matching this description are urged to contact Ulverston police on 101.

The Police new non-emergency number is 101

2012-01-25T11:06:00.002Z

Police want to speak to Jimmy France

2012-01-25T10:46:00.002Z

Jimmy France has contacted police and is currently helping them with their enquiries. Thank you to all who helped.
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Detectives in Barrow are wanting to speak to Albert James William France, commonly known as Jimmy France, aged 37 from Barrow, in connection with criminal investigations and in breach of his police bail.

It is believe he is in the Barrow area and anyone who knows of his whereabouts is asked to contact the police.

If you recognise him from his picture and know where he is currently located, please contact Barrow CID on 101.

You can also give information without saying who you are by ringing the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Police reappeal for info that will help them locate Barrow man who has been recalled to prison

2012-01-25T10:29:00.002Z

Police have again appealed for information to help them find Kevin Anthony Wyatt, 27, from Barrow, as he has been recalled to prison.

Wyatt failed to return to the Carlisle hostel he was living in while he was on license from prison.

Police believe he may be in the Furness area.

Anybody who knows of Wyatt's whereabouts, or who has seen a man fitting his description, should call Barrow CID on 101.

You can also give information without saying who you are....please ring the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

3 men charged with drug offences

2012-01-25T10:20:00.000Z

Three men have been charged with drugs offences as a result of arrests in Cumbria and Lancashire on Wednesday 18th January 2012.

Jamie Michael Cato, 40, of Harrowside, Blackpool, was arrested on the afternoon of Wednesday 18th January after his car was stopped by uniformed officers on the outskirts of Kirby Stephen. A quantity of Class B controlled drugs, including approximately 2kg of Amphetamine Sulphate, was recovered from the vehicle. Cato was subsequently charged with being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs.

Robert Jackson, 38, of Hampton Road, Blackpool was arrested at Harrowside, Blackpool along with Philip Joseph Eltman, 48, of Seaview Way, Fleetwood. Both men were subsequently charged with being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs.

All three men will appear before Carlisle Magistrates on 16th March 2012 for committal proceedings.

Media appeal from West Mercia police: Escaped prisoner - assistance required

2012-01-25T10:05:00.002Z

Police Appeal For Information About Dangerous Prisoner

Police have issued an urgent appeal after a dangerous prisoner escaped from a prison escort van in North Worcestershire on the morning of Monday, 23 January 2012.

It happened at about 8.20am in Hewell Lane, Tardebigge, near Bromsgrove, close to HMP Hewell Grange.

The prisoner, John Anslow, was charged with murder by Staffordshire Police last week.

Anslow, aged 31, who is from the Tipton area, is one of five men charged with the murder of Richard Deakin, who was shot dead in Chasetown, Staffordshire, in 2010. He was charged on Wednesday, 18 January, and was on his way to Stafford Crown Court.

Anslow is described as white, 5ft 10ins tall, of medium build, with short straight dark brown hair.

Detective Inspector Jon Marsden of West Mercia Police said: “Three men wearing balaclavas, two of whom were carrying sledgehammers, got out of a silver Volkswagen Scirocco, and smashed the windscreen and driver’s window of the GEO Amey prison escort van.
“The van driver was punched but no serious injuries were sustained by escort staff. There were two other prisoners in the van at the time, neither of whom were released.”

The Scirroco drove off at speed. The group are believed to have switched to a silver Mercedes car in Stoney Lane, Bromsgrove, soon after.

Det Insp Marsden added: “Anslow has recently been charged with murder and is considered dangerous. We are working closely with our colleagues from West Midlands and Staffordshire Police forces and a large number of officers from all three forces are involved in the search for him. However we would urge any members of the public who sees him not to approach him directly, but to contact police immediately on 999.”

Information can also be passed on to West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000 quoting incident 87-s-230112, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111.

Family pay tribute to heroic father who died in A5087 collision

2012-01-24T10:53:00.003Z

The family of 61 year old George Tyson who sadly died in a road traffic collision on the A5087 at Conishead, Bardsea on Sunday have paid tribute to a caring and heroic father who ‘died doing the thing he loved most.’

Melanie Tyson, George’s daughter said on behalf of her family: “George was my dad and he died on Sunday doing the thing he loved the most. He was walking, as he does most Sundays, with my brother Garry, down the Coast Road towards Ulverston. My dad’s life was cruelly taken away from him, although through various witness statements, the story is blessed with his selfless act of saving the life of my brother. We, as a family, are still in shock of this news but realise that my dad’s quick action saved it from being an even bigger tragedy.
“My dad was a loyal Ulverstonian who cared for a great deal of people over his life in the wonderful town he loved. He was for a long time heavily involved in the community and had a large part to play in various projects to bring us all together – and, more importantly, help the kids get the most out of living in this beautiful town of ours. He was a naturally gifted carpenter who loved varnishing everything he could find. He was immensely talented.
“He practically built our family home from scratch and will be forever remembered carrying his tools around the house and drilling holes in - in my mum’s opinion - too many walls. He loved making a mess and I’ll always remember the great times we had, along with my brother and sometimes at the expense of my mum’s patience, having too many laughs.

“Most people of Ulverston will know him through the long term care and help he has shown my brother and most people with have at some point seen them pacing through town on their many missions. Garry, who was left disabled following his own tragic accident, was inseparable from his dad and the huge amount of time, care and patience my dad showed will be hugely missed.

“Myself and my own family are soon to be returning to live in Ulverston and with the help of Will, my Mum and Garry, will help me bring my son up in this big hearted town that his Granddad loved and cared for so much.”

The collision occurred at about 3.50pm on Sunday 22nd January 2012 and involved Mr Tyson of Alexander Gardens, Ulverston, his son Garry, and a white coloured Vauxhall Corsa driven by a 17 year old male from Barrow. He was arrested on suspicion of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving and was subsequently released on bail until 4 April 2012 pending further enquiries.

Mr Tyson’s son was conveyed to Furness General Hospital by ambulance and he was released after treatment.

The police are appealing for witnesses to the collision and they are asked to contact PC Simon Tunstall at Ulverston Roads Policing Unit on the non emergency number of 101.
You can also give information anonymously by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

First day in post for Cumbria’s new Chief Constable

2012-01-23T16:59:00.001Z

Cumbria Constabulary’s new Chief Constable began his new role today after the Police Authority appointed him as the county’s top cop.

The Police Authority appointed Stuart Hyde as Chief Constable last week after Craig Mackey announced his move to become Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police.

Speaking about his new role, Chief Constable Hyde said: “Today I begin my role as the Chief Constable of Cumbria and I feel privileged to be leading such a dedicated team of officers and staff.
“My focus for the next 18 months will be to ensure Cumbria remains a safe place to live, work and visit, and to deliver the best policing service we can afford.
“Our main challenge will be to continue delivering such high performance with fewer people and a smaller budget, so my priority will be to identify further efficiencies that enable us to maintain a visible, front-line policing service to the people of Cumbria.
“I also want to work more closely with partner agencies, both at a county and district level, so that we can maximise any back office efficiencies and tackle community priorities more effectively by dealing with issues together.
“Tackling serious and organised crime will remain a priority, and I want to ensure that we develop our tactics to ensure we stay ahead, and remain in a strong position to tackle the changing face of criminality.”

Ray Cole, Chair of Cumbria Police Authority, said: "We are fortunate to have a strong Chief Officer Group whose leadership has driven down Cumbria’s crime and anti-social behaviour levels year on year.
“I’m confident that the team, led by Stuart, will continue this hard work and I look forward to working alongside the new Chief Constable to build upon Cumbria Constabulary’s successes.”

Assistant Chief Constables Michelle Skeer and Jerry Graham will split the temporary Deputy Chief Constable post between them, taking it in turns to fill the position until August 2013. Deputy Chief Constable Jerry Graham has taken up the role today and will remain in post until the end of October 2012.

The Police Authority has decided to leave the remaining Assistant Chief Constable post vacant at this time due to the organisation’s reduced budget and internal staffing reviews that are ongoing.

Have you seen missing Barrow teen, Reece Tarr?

2012-01-20T15:26:00.000Z

Reece was found on Friday teatime (20th January 2012). Thanks to all who helped.
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Police in Barrow are trying to trace a local boy, who has been missing since the 18th January.

Reece Tarr, 15, was last seen by his family at his home in Barrow at around 7pm on Wednesday.

Officers believe he is still in the Barrow area, and are appealing for anyone who knows of Reece’s whereabouts, or has seen a boy fitting his description, to call Barrow Police on 101.

Reece is described as a white male, 5ft 3ins tall, medium build, with short, blonde hair. He was last seen wearing a brown hooded top, grey track suit bottoms and white trainers.

You can also give information anonymously by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 080 555 111

Police investigating Barrow frauds release CCTV

2012-01-20T10:37:00.002Z

Police have released the image of a man they want to speak to in connection with a series of fraud offences committed in Barrow before Christmas.

The image was captured on CCTV around the time that an offence took place in Tesco in Barrow on the morning of 20 December 2011, when a man went into the shop and moved a Dyson Hoover from display before taking it to the Customer Services till to request a refund, stating that he had bought the item a few weeks before. The man left the store empty handed after being questioned by staff.

Officers are also investigating similar offences were reported in Barrow that same day. Between 10.30am and 10.45am, a man entered Homebase and removed high value items from display. He then took it to Customer Services to request a refund, informing them that he had bought the items a few weeks before. He was unsuccessful in getting a refund.

Two very similar offences were reported at B&Q in Barrow later that morning. On two occasions on the same morning, the first between 11am and 11.05am, then again at 11.15-11.20am, the same man attempted to commit the same offence as happened in Homebase and Tesco.

Later, between 11.20am and 11.25am on 20 December, a man entered The Range and removed high value items from display. He then went to the Customer Services section and was successful in securing a refund.

Police are investigating these offences and are keen to speak to the man pictured in the CCTV in connection with them.
If you recognise him, please call Barrow’s Retail Crime Team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Newest and cutest recruits arrive at Cumbria Constabulary

2012-01-20T09:59:00.000Z

Cumbria Constabulary will welcome the arrival of their newest, youngest and fluffiest recruits next week.

The three German Shepherd puppies, who are 8 weeks old, will arrive from the Isle of Man to start their training as police dogs for Cumbria Constabulary.

The pups were donated from the dog breeding programme at the Isle Of Man Constabulary and join the existing 12 General Purpose police dogs, 12 drugs dogs and explosives dogs currently assisting the fight against crime in Cumbria.

For the next six months, the new recruits will work alongside their handlers to form a bond, socialise with a diverse range of people and gain experience in a variety of environments and locations.

The pups, two female and one male, are replacing three police dogs which are all due to retire.

PC Steve Jones, PC Simon Hodgkinson and PC Jonathan Chappell will each receive one of the new pups and will start their training as soon as they arrive.

Sergeant Mark Yielder, from the Dog Unit at Cumbria Constabulary, said: “The next six months is all about familiarising the dogs with as many new people, places and experiences as possible, so that they are able to deal with any situation they’re faced with when they start work.
“We spend a lot more time playing with the dogs than you would a family pet, and rather than fluffy animals and balls, these dogs have sets of keys and tools as toys, so that they get used to the kinds of materials and objects they will be expected to search for at crime scenes in the future.
“They are also exposed to loud noises by playing recordings of thunder, lightening and firework noises on a stereo so that they get used to the unexpected, and grow into bold working dogs.”

It will be at least a year before the pups begin training in earnest, and around 18 months before they start working, giving them the time they need to grow in confidence and strength.

Once trained, the dogs will be used during public order incidents, to locate missing people, search crime scenes and hunt for offenders.

Sergeant Ian Kelly, from the Isle of Man Police, said: “It is great to see these dogs going to a force which we have such a good working relationship with. We work closely with our colleagues in Cumbria and attend training courses held by them and have our dogs independently licensed by their instructors when we can. We mutually assist each other in searches, for example, they helped us with security searches last September when we hosted the Commonwealth Youth Games and we have assisted with searches for Royal visits”.
“The parents of these pups are both working police dogs within the Isle of Man. Dad is called Bodie, aged three and a half years and their mother, Saxon is two and a half and both are pedigree Kennel Club registered with lines going back to Slovakia and Belgium. The pups should hopefully adapt to the role of a police dog, although nothing is ever guaranteed with puppies.”

Members of the public will be able to follow the progress of the pups on the police Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cumbriapolice and Inspector Matthew Kennerley has launched a new Twitter site: www.twitter.com/policedogunit which will provide updates on the puppies progression, information on the Dogs Unit, handlers, training and the incidents they attend.

Details of a competition to guess the name of one of the puppies will be added to Cumbria Police’s Facebook page and the new Dogs Unit Twitter site. The prize will be a visit to the Dog Unit at Cumbria Constabulary where they will meet the puppies and the police officers who work there. Schools will also be able to enter the competition.

Keep your eye on the following webpage to see when the competition is open: www.cumbria.police.uk/policedogunit

Two of Cumbria's current police dogs with their handlers.........

PC Charlie Sowerby and Leo

PC Jon Chappel and Penny

Christmas Drink and Drugs Driving Campaign 2011/12 – The Results

2012-01-20T09:27:00.002Z

Cumbria police today issued the results of their Christmas Drink Driving Campaign.

The annual crackdown ran from 1st December 2011 to 1st January 2012. During that period, officers conducted 3,345 breath tests across the county, of which 88 either proved positive for traces of alcohol, or the driver failed or refused to provide a test. 33 of the positive tests, or failures to provide a test, followed a collision.

This means that 2.6 per cent of motorists tested for alcohol were over the limit.

In December 2010, a total of 1,641 breath tests were taken with a total of 58 drivers providing positive breath tests. This meant that 3.5 per cent of those tested were over the limit. Cumbria experienced particularly bad weather in December 2010, meaning far fewer motorists used the county’s roads and, consequently, a much smaller number of breath tests were carried out by police.

Officers are pleased with the reduction in the rate of people caught drink driving, but disappointed that a minority of motorists continue to put other road users at risk by getting behind the wheel after having a drink.

Inspector Andy Wilkinson from Cumbria’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “We are pleased to have seen a reduction in the percentage of positive breath tests but it is still quite shocking that there are so many people who continue to ignore the law and risk the lives of other road users by drink driving.
“The effects of driving under the influence of drink and drugs can be devastating and will not be tolerated in Cumbria.
“We will continue to crack down on those who are intent on driving under the influence of alcohol. Everyone should take responsibility for road safety by reminding friends and family to drive safely and by reporting anyone they know to be drink driving to police immediately.”

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “I am disappointed that there are some people who continue to ignore our warnings and put lives at risk by driving under the influence of drink or drugs.
"There is no excuse for this and we will not tolerate those who needlessly endanger the lives of other road users.
“The penalties for drink and drug driving include fines, the loss of driving licences and even prison, but these are nothing compared to the risk of injury and loss of life that rises steeply when motorist’s reactions are impaired by alcohol or drugs.
“During 2012 we will continue to target those who choose to drink and drug drive and are committed to making the roads of Cumbria safer.”

If you suspect someone is drink driving call police on 101 or call 999 in an emergency

Police seek missing Barrow girl

2012-01-19T14:17:00.001Z

Abigail was found safe and well last night. Thanks to everyone who helped.
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Police in Barrow are trying to trace a local girl, who has been missing since the 17th January.

Abigail Backhouse, 15, was last seen by her family at her home in Barrow at around 7pm on Tuesday.

Officers believe she is still in the Barrow area, and are appealing for anyone who knows of Abigail’s whereabouts or has seen a girl fitting her description, to call Barrow Police on 101.

If you would like to provide information without saying who you are then please ring the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Abigail is described as a white female, 5ft 4ins tall, medium build, with dark, shoulder-length hair. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a dark track suit top and was carrying a Paul’s Boutique, leopard-print bag.

Chief Constable heads south after five successful years in Cumbria

2012-01-18T20:34:00.000Z

Chief Constable Craig Mackey will be leaving Cumbria Constabulary at the end of January to take up a new role with the Metropolitan police.

After five successful years in charge of Cumbria Constabulary, Mr Mackey will be heading to London’s Metropolitan Police on 23 January 2012 to assume the role of Deputy Commissioner.

The Chair of the Police Authority has spoken highly of Mr Mackey’s achievements and regrets of his departure. Ray Cole, the Chair of Cumbria Police Authority, said: “Working alongside Craig, the Authority and Constabulary have faced a range of challenges – from major incidents like the West Cumbria Shootings in 2010 and the flooding in 2009, to providing the people of Cumbria with a high quality policing service in the face of £20.3 million worth of budget cuts.
“Cumbria Constabulary has not only come through all of these challenges to date, it has done so whilst improving its performance year on year. Craig leaves the Constabulary in a healthy position of having some of the lowest crime and anti-social behaviour levels in the country and I wish him every success in his new role.”

Chief Constable Craig Mackey said: “While I am excited to be taking up a new role within the Metropolitan Police, my move away from Cumbria is tinged with sadness.
“It has been an honour and privilege to be the Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary and I will be sad to leave colleagues and friends behind. In the last five years we have experienced some of the most testing times in the Constabulary’s history and I am immensely proud of each and every person I have had the honour of working with.
“The success that the Constabulary has experienced over the last few years would not have been possible without the unfailing support from our local communities. When I took up my role as Chief Constable I pledged to focus on neighbourhood policing. I wanted local people to get to know their police force and encouraged officers and PCSOs to get out on the streets. I have personally met with community groups from Carlisle to Barrow and all those in between – and have been impressed by the commitment and willingness that all residents have to work alongside police to improve their neighbourhoods.
“I will always have a great fondness for Cumbria which has been my home for the last five years. I believe a little piece of the county will always be with me and I look forward to watching with interest as Cumbria Constabulary continues to go from strength to strength.”

Chief Constable Craig MacKey at the Neighbourhood Watch Annual General Meeting at the end of last year. Pete Thomas from Fife Street Neighbourhood Watch in Barrow received the High Sheriff's Shield.
From left to right: Dr John Perkins, Chair of Neighbourhood Watch in Cumbria; Iona Frost-Pennington, High Sheriff of Cumbria; Pete Thomas with the Shield, Fife Street Neighbourhood Watch, Barrow; Rebecca Rawlings, Community Safety Officer, Barrow Borough Council; Chief Constable Craig MacKey.

The Police Authority appointed Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde as the temporary Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary until August 2013.

When the Deputy Chief Constable takes on his new role, Assistant Chief Constables Michelle Skeer and Jerry Graham will split the temporary Deputy Chief Constable post between them, taking it in turns to fill the position until August 2013. ACC Jerry Graham will take up the role of temporary Deputy Chief Constable at the end of January until the end of October 2012.

The Police Authority has decided to leave the remaining Assistant Chief Constable role vacant which will be reviewed on a regular basis.

Police seek Barrow man who has been recalled to prison

2012-01-18T11:27:00.002Z

Police want to find Kevin Anthony Wyatt, 27, from Barrow, as he has been recalled to prison.

Kevin Anthony Wyatt

Wyatt failed to return to the Carlisle hostel he was living in while he was on license from prison.

Police believe he may be in the Furness area.

Anybody who knows of Wyatt's whereabouts, or who has seen a man fitting his description, should call Barrow CID on 101.

If you have information but do not want to say who you are then please ring the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Police want to speak to Daniel Green from Dalton

2012-01-18T11:22:00.003Z

Note 19th January: Daniel Green was located by the police last night (18 January 2012) and is currently helping officers with their enquiries.
Thank you to all those who helped.

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

Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace a man they want to speak to in connection with a burglary that occurred in Dalton on Saturday 19th November 2011.

His name is Daniel Green and he is 26-yrs-old and from Dalton. Police believe he is likely to be in the Furness area.
If you know of Daniel's whereabouts, or have seen a man fitting his description, please contact Detective Sergeant Helen Ellis from South Cumbria CID on 101.

You can also give information without saying who you are by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Can you help police track down Kendal man?

2012-01-18T09:48:00.002Z

Police are re-appealing for the public’s help to trace a man they want to speak to in connection with a burglary that occurred in Kendal on Saturday 10th September 2011.

His name is Jonathon Calvert and he is 25-yrs-old and from Kendal. Police believe he is likely to be in the Kendal area.

If you know of Jonathon’s whereabouts, or have seen a man fitting his description, please contact Detective Sergeant Helen Ellis from South Cumbria CID on 101.

You can also give information anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by ringing 0800 555 111

Police continue search for missing Kendal man, John James Capstick

2012-01-17T11:58:00.000Z

Police are continuing their search today (17th Jan) for missing Kendal man John James Capstick.

John James Capstick

48-yr-old Mr Capstick, from Finley Drive, was reported missing on Sunday 15th January after he failed to arrive at a family member’s home in Sedbergh. He has not been seen since and police officers and Mr Capstick’s family are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

He is described as slim with short grey hair. He was last seen wearing a green jacket, black woollen hat and black shoes. Mr Capstick is known to be driving a green Ford Maverick registration number P970 SFR.

The search today will continue to focus on the Lake District area and National Park Rangers have volunteered to assist police officers who are trying to locate him. Dedicated officers from North Yorkshire Police and Lancashire Police will also join in the search on their sides of the county border.

Members of the public who see his vehicle or a man matching his description are urged to contact Kendal police immediately on 101.

Deputy Chief Constable appointed temporary Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary

2012-01-16T15:55:00.004Z

The Police Authority has appointed Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde as temporary Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary.

After meeting on Friday 13 January, the Police Authority decided to offer Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde the Chief Constable position on a temporary basis until August 2013. DCC Hyde has accepted this post and, as a result, has withdrawn his application for the role of Chief Constable for South Yorkshire Police.

DCC Stuart Hyde will become temporary Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary on 23 January 2012

Mr MacKey (the outgoing Chief Constable) will assume the role of Deputy Commissioner for the Metropolitan police on 23rd January 2012

When the Deputy Chief Constable takes on his new role later this month, Assistant Chief Constables Michelle Skeer and Jerry Graham will split the temporary Deputy Chief Constable post between them, taking it in turns to fill the position until August 2013. ACC Jerry Graham will take up the role of temporary Deputy Chief Constable at the end of January until the end of October 2012.

ACC Jerry Graham

ACC Michelle Skeer

The Police Authority has decided to leave the remaining Assistant Chief Constable post vacant at this time due to the organisation’s reduced budget and internal staffing reviews that are ongoing.

Police Authority Chairman Ray Cole said: “Since his appointment as Chief Constable in 2007, Craig’s hard work, dedication and leadership has steered the Constabulary through some extremely challenging times.
“As well as guiding us through some of the most tragic incidents experienced in British policing, he has also helped to improve the Constabulary’s performance year on year, leaving Cumbria with crime and anti-social behaviour levels that are among the lowest in the country.
“The Chief Officer Group is strong and I’m confident that the team, led by Stuart, will continue this hard work. We are fortunate to have two experienced Assistant Chief Constables who are dedicated to making Cumbria safer. The Authority has decided to build on their skills and experience and ensure continuity within the Chief Officer Team by offering them both the opportunity to act as temporary Deputy Chief Constable for a nine month period. We have decided to keep one of the Assistant Chief Constable posts vacant at this time but this will be reviewed on a regular basis.
“I know I speak for the whole Authority when I say that we will be very sorry to see Craig leave but look forward to working alongside Stuart Hyde to build upon Cumbria Constabulary’s successes.”

Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde said: “I am delighted to be offered this position and look forward to beginning a new and challenging role.
“The Chief Officer Team has been working together for three years and will build on our successes. My priority will continue to be ensuring that Cumbria remains safe and that we deliver the best policing service we can afford.”

Stuart Hyde’s Biography
Stuart Hyde was born and educated in Bristol. On leaving school he studied Law at Birmingham University completing his studies in 1983. During this period he was elected to the post of Deputy President of the Guild of Students, spending a year as a full time official.

In 1983 he joined Avon & Somerset Constabulary starting his career in St Paul’s, Bristol. He held a variety of posts culminating in his final role as Head of Drugs & Crime Squads.

In 1997 he was promoted to Detective Superintendent in West Yorkshire Police where he managed a number of Force Crime departments. He moved to a Senior Investigating Officers role in Bradford and was subsequently promoted to Detective Chief Superintendent.

He was promoted to the post of Assistant Chief Constable in the West Midlands in April 2004 and took on the portfolio for Operations then from August 2008 moved to the portfolio for Crime.

His national responsibilities have included the Police use of DNA, creating the Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre CEOP and reducing crime against students.

In 2006 to 2007 he was seconded to The Home Office (Immigration) as Strategic Director of Enforcement and helped to tip the balance of returning failed asylum seekers and increased the return of Foreign national Prisoners.

On his return to force from the Home Office he undertook the Operations Portfolio and transformed the force state of preparedness for critical incidents and acts of terrorism.

He is the lead nationally for Student Crime Reduction, E-Crime Prevention, and National Fraud Reporting Centre.

Stuart is President of the Society for the Policing of Cyberspace (http://www.polcyb.org/)

In 2008 he received an Honorary Doctorate in Technology from the University of Wolverhampton in recognition of his achievements in tackling online crime.

In June 2009 he became the Deputy Chief Constable of Cumbria Constabulary where he has strategic responsibility for Personnel and Development, Strategic Development, Professional Standards, Legal Services, Marketing and Media, I.T. and the Programme Management Unit.

Police grow increasingly concerned for missing John Capstick

2012-01-16T10:10:00.004Z

Police in Kendal are growing increasingly concerned for a local man after he was reported missing yesterday, Sunday 16 January.

Police officers and family members of 48 year old John James Capstick of Finley Drive, Kendal are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare after he failed to arrive at a family member’s home in Sedbergh yesterday afternoon. He has not been seen since.

He is described as having short grey hair and of a slim build. He was last seen wearing a green jacket, black woollen hat and black shoes. Mr Capstick is known to be driving a green Ford Maverick registration number P970 SFR.

Police officers have been making local enquiries and searching the local area overnight. A large scale search is being resumed this morning and police are appealing for Mr Capstick to contact police to let them know he is safe and well.

Members of the public who see his vehicle or a man matching his description are urged to contact Kendal police immediately on 101.

Bridging the gap - help back to work

2012-01-13T15:26:00.000Z

ADS (Addiction Dependency Solutions) Cumbria is introducing their award-winning Bridging the Gap programme in Ulverston at Ford Park from the 21st of February and needs applicants to get in contact now. The programme, designed to get people into work, is calling for more students to enrol. The course is free and all expenses, including childcare, will be reimbursed.

Bridging the Gap is an award-winning training programme to help people who have experienced substance misuse-related problems gain the skills necessary to become work-ready. It can provide a route to paid work, voluntary work or further education through gaining skills, experience and qualifications.

The course is open to anyone living in South Cumbria who has had a problem with drug or alcohol misuse, and is now free from illicit drugs and in a stable condition. Bridging the Gap is also open to concerned others, whether this is a partner or other family members, who have often faced a harrowing journey themselves, trying to support a loved one in trying circumstances.

Students will be required to attend for 15 hours a week, with help available to pay for transport and childcare costs. The emphasis of the course is getting people back into employment and there will be opportunities for work placements and support to gain new qualifications.

Ann Dermott, ADS Cumbria Bridging the Gap Co-ordinator, said “The benefits of the programme are huge and we know from other areas where the course has been implemented that students can go on to secure full-time employment or into further education”.

If you would like any immediate information regarding Bridging the Gap contact Anne Dermott on – 01768 861 280 (07730711800 mob.) or email cumbria.btg@adsolutions.org.uk

Police drive down festive retail crime by 50 per cent in Barrow

2012-01-11T14:35:00.001Z

Barrow police have dramatically reduced retail crime in Barrow over the Christmas period with thefts from shops falling by over 50 per cent over the last two years.

The annual operation, dubbed ‘Operation Scapula’ involved officers and PCSOs from Barrow Police’s Community Team who were supported by officers from the Southern Tactical Support Group and Response officers who carried out both undercover and high visibility foot patrols around retail parks and the town centre shops and car parks.

The operation was launched on 21st November 2011 and concluded on 5th January 2012.

Sergeant Ian McClymont said: “Historically, you see a rise in retail crime around the Christmas period so we planned ahead and launched a dedicated Operation to support local businesses and deter criminals in the town.
“By working closely with retailers and CCTV operators, I am pleased to see that there has been a reduction in retail crime of over 50% during the last two years.”

Between 21st November 2009 and 5th January 2010, 84 retail thefts were recorded. During 21st November 2010 and 5th January 2011, 52 retail thefts were reported to police and this year’s Operation saw the numbers drop to only 37 reported retail thefts.

Sgt McClymont continued: “It is fantastic to see such a dramatic reduction in retail crime as it shows that hard work from police officers and partners has paid off. What is also very encouraging is that the number of these types of offences that are detected by police has also risen - from 82% in 2009 to 86% in 2011 – meaning that more shoplifters are being caught, charged and brought before the courts.
Of the 37 crimes reported to police this year, 86.5% (32) were detected and £2286.26 worth of property connected to these crimes was recovered.
Shoplifting and theft is something that we work hard to tackle all year round in Barrow and I think that criminals are getting the message that they are not welcome here.

Our dedicated police retail team in Barrow of PC John Paton and PCSOs Helen Fortey and Tracy Livingston make sure that the chances of getting caught shoplifting in Barrow is very high indeed, and it is our intention to keep it that way throughout 2012.”

Have you seen anything suspicious on a South Lakes ATM recently?

2012-01-09T11:24:00.001Z

South Lakes police are appealing for information after receiving reports that suspicious devices may have been placed on the ATM machines at Barclays Bank in Ambleside and Windermere on the 5th and 6th of January 2012.

A photograph of strip that was seized by police from the machines before Christmas

The bank reported suspicions to the police after the machines displayed an ‘error’ message that was similar to the one displayed before Christmas when offender(s) attached a silver coloured plastic strip to the cash dispenser, preventing the user from collecting their money (see photo above).
Police are investigating whether the machine was tampered with and are appealing to anyone who may have noticed anything suspicious in the vicinity of the machines - or who may have experienced suspicious transactions - to contact their bank and police at Windermere station on 101.

You can also report crime ANONYMOUSLY by ringing the Crimestoppers charity for free on 0800 555 111

Victim Support calls for victims and witnesses of crime to take part in focus groups and interviews in Cumbria

2012-01-09T10:16:00.002Z

Victim Support will be running focus groups and interviews with victims and witnesses of crime in Cumbria over the next two months as part of a national project to raise awareness of important local issues facing victims and witnesses.

The Victim Support ‘victims’ services advocates project’ will involve talking to victims and witnesses about their experience of crime and finding out what services are available for them across England and Wales. Local victims’ services advocates employed by the charity will produce local reports on their findings. These will be used to raise awareness of important issues affecting victims and witnesses and to make sure that each new police and crime commissioner has victim and witness issues on their agenda when they are elected in November 2012.

Tim Kell, Victims’ Services Advocate for Cumbria, is looking for victims and witnesses of antisocial behaviour, domestic abuse, sexual assault and hate crime to take part in local focus groups or individual interviews. Victims must have experienced the crime within the last two years and not currently be involved in criminal justice proceedings or a court case relating to the crime.

Tim explained the importance of giving local victims and witnesses a voice:

“We are asking local people to take part in this important project to represent the needs and views of people who have experienced crime in Cumbria. We want to find out how people have been treated as a victim or witness by the police and criminal justice system and if they have found suitable services to support them through a difficult time in their lives”

If you are interested in taking part in a focus group or arranging an interview, please contact Tim Kell on 0191-212 5847 or 07908 958 358, or at tim.kell@victimsupport.org.uk – or visit http://www.victimsupport.org.uk/ for more details

New line of enquiry for investigation into Ulverston dog shooting

2012-01-06T12:17:00.004Z

Police investigating the shooting of a dog in Ulverston on Boxing Day are following new lines of enquiry after witnesses have come forward.

Officers launched an investigation after receiving reports that a dog was shot on Birkrigg Common in Little Urswick, Ulverston sometime between 12pm and 2pm on 26 December.

Officers were informed about the incident on 28 December when the dog had already been buried. The initial report provided to police stated that a male occupant of a white coloured Land Rover Defender shot the pet dog while the owner, a woman from Barrow, was walking out of sight some distance behind. The vehicle is then believed to have driven off from the scene.

This week, three witnesses to the incident have come forward and officers are now following up lines of enquiry after their information suggests that the dog was worrying livestock in the area at the time the shooting took place.

Inspector Kevin Spedding said: “Our investigation is still active and we are still keen to trace a number of witnesses who we know were in the vicinity of Birkrigg Common on Boxing Day.
“We managed to trace a witness earlier this week who has presented us with a view of the events that afternoon which suggest that the dog was worrying livestock at the time, causing sheep to run out into moving traffic. We are now looking into whether this was the case and are appealing directly to motorists who may have witnessed this incident – or a part of it – to come forward.
“Two motorists who were in the vicinity and saw the shooting contacted us yesterday, providing us with very similar accounts. All three witnesses state that, in their opinion, the actions of the man who shot the dog were due to the animal worrying sheep at the time.
“We now need to trace further witnesses which include the man who shot the dog, so that we can hear his version of events and try to establish the exact circumstances"

Motorists advised to take care in icy conditions

2012-01-06T12:08:00.002Z

Police are urging motorists to take extra care and drive to the conditions this morning as many of the county’s roads are icy.

Temperatures have dropped overnight which has led to dangerous road conditions – particularly on some rural roads in Cumbria.

Police are urging motorists to take extra care and drive to the conditions. Pavements are just as susceptible to freezing as roads, so take care when walking as well as when driving.

Police have been called to the following road traffic collisions this morning (Friday 6th January) where icy conditions may have been a contributory factor:

At 6.11am, police were called to a collision on the A5084 at Water Yeat, Ulverston involving a white van and a motorcyclist who suffered a leg injury.
At 7.37am, police were called to a one vehicle damage only collision on the B5284 in Kendal, involving a grey Peugeot estate which was blocking the road. Recovery is currently at the scene
At 7.53am, police were called to a one vehicle damage only collision on the Penrith to Lazonby Road, close to Penrith golf course. The vehicle, a blue Daewoo driven by a 25 yr old man from Lazonby was on its side in a ditch.

To keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

You can also contact the Cumbria Highways Hotline on 0845 609 6609.

Safety advice for motorists
• Plan your journey in advance
• Check local and national weather forecasts and tune into local radio stations to check on road conditions and closures
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive and ensure you have a charged mobile phone with you
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade
• Clear your windows and mirrors fully before you set off and carry a screen scraper and de-icer

If you have an accident, break-down or become stuck in bad weather conditions:
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call
• On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone because the emergency services and breakdown recovery services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder
• If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you

Vehicle maintenance:
• Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow – remember also to clear your vehicle roof of compacted snow in case it dislodges while you drive, as this could be dangerous to other road users
• Keep your battery fully charged
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer
• Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order
• Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure. Consider changing to high performance winter tyres.

Drive according to weather conditions:
• Allow extra time and distance to brake as it can take ten times longer to stop in wet or icy conditions
• Adapt your driving behaviour. Keep in mind the decreased visibility and changing road conditions.
• Slow down and avoid sudden or jerky movements
• When driving on ice or snow use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Be wary of satellite navigation systems as they tend to direct you over high rural roads that are likely to be closed or particularly hazardous in winter
• Do not assume that pedestrians have seen you. They may be elderly, young or not be able to hear you
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads if the water seems too deep
• Drive slowly through water in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling
• Test your brakes when you have driven through a flood before you drive again at normal speed

Police non-emergency number, 101 is catching on

2012-01-05T10:22:00.003Z

Since the launch of the new non-emergency police number, 101, it is catching on and is being used more and more by the residents in Cumbria.

On average, 25% of the non-emergency calls being made to Cumbria Constabulary are via the 101 number since its launch on 13 December 2011.

The new number will eventually replace Cumbria Constabulary’s current non-emergency number, 0845 33 00 247. This number, in time, will be phased out. All calls for Cumbria are still answered by the same Police staff in the Constabulary’s Communications Centre.

When calling 101, the system will determine the caller’s location and play a recorded message announcing the police force they’re being connected to. Callers will also hear options to select for neighbouring Forces. If callers are on a boundary between two or more forces, the recorded message will give a choice of which force to be connected to. If a caller wishes to contact a Force not given in these options, then there is a further option to select to speak with an operator who will route the caller to any of the 43 Forces in England and Wales.

Calls to 101 will cost 15p per call, no matter what time of day it is, or how long the call lasts. This means everyone calling the police will know exactly how much a call will cost them, whether they’re calling from a landline or a mobile phone.

Chief Inspector Dawn Allen, from the Constabulary’s Communication Centre, said "It is positive to see that the 101 number is being used and this will go from strength to strength in the up and coming months now that the number is being promoted across the county.
“101 is a easy number to remember for non-emergency calls and unfortunately over the New Year period we did see an increase in the number of non-emergency calls being made to the 999 number.
“I would like to remind people 999 should only be used in cases of emergency, all other calls and enquiries should be made to the 101 where Communications staff will be able to help you.”

Further details about 101 will be published through local posters and advertisements that will appear throughout the county over the up and coming weeks.

Anyone who is unsure is advised to speak to their local police officer who will be able to reassure them. More information is available on the Constabulary’s website at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/news/latest-news/police-launch-101

To find out more about what is happening in the local community, visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/cumbriacommunitymessaging

South Lakeland police warn community of email scam

2012-01-03T13:23:00.001Z

Police in South Lakeland are urging people to be wary of an email scam that has recently been reported to them.

Officers have had several reports of an email scam that involves an offender gaining access to your email account and emailing all of your contacts, purporting to be you. The email states that you are on holiday or on a journey and have either lost your passports/documents/money/mobile phone or they have been stolen and asks for the recipient to send money by transfer.

Terry Belshaw a Community Safety Officer from Cumbria Constabulary said: “Sadly, some well meaning people have been duped by this scam only to realise that their friends are not in fact in trouble or even on holiday.
“If you receive an email that is similar to the one I have described, please take time to read it carefully and treat it with caution. Before sending any money, establish whether your friend is on holiday or in trouble – in this day and age it would be unusual for someone to have email facility and no telephone.
“Police do receive complaints of dishonesty and scams where criminals operate over the internet or by telephone. Police always urge people to be cautious and to check out the person or company’s credentials. Make sure that you use only secure sites when you are on the internet, and do not respond to emails or phone calls that ask for financial details. No reputable company or person will ask you for this private information or ask you to part with money over the phone or via email.
“Remember that giving out details over the phone or online can cause real problems if they fall into the wrong hands. If you feel that there is something suspicious about any contact you receive by phone or email, contact the Police on 101 or call your local Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.”

Police investigating dog shooting appeal for community's help

2012-01-03T12:59:00.004Z

A police investigation is ongoing into the reported shooting of a dog in UIverston on Boxing Day.

The incident occurred between 12pm and 2pm on 26 December on Birkrigg Common, Little Urswick however it was not reported to the police until 28th Dec 2011. From the accounts provided so far it is believed that the occupants of a white coloured Land Rover Defender were responsible for the fatal shooting of a pet dog while the owner, a woman from Barrow, was walking out of sight some distance behind. The vehicle is then believed to have driven off from the scene.

Inspector Kevin Spedding said: “This was a very distressing incident for those involved and a team of local officers are investigating in an effort to establish the full circumstances. Unfortunately the 48 hour delay in the incident being reported to us meant we did not attend at the time; however officers have been visible in the area since, and have been appealing to local dog walkers in an effort to trace potential witnesses. We are especially keen to speak with a couple who were walking a spaniel dog in the area and who may well have witnessed the incident.
“This is a crime that has not happened in the area before and we are determined to find out what the motive was for this incident and exactly who is responsible. Understandably, the owner of the dog has been left incredibly distressed by the ordeal.
“There will be increased police patrols on Birkrigg Common to help provide future reassurance to the local community and I would appeal to local residents to help us catch whoever is responsible by providing us with information. If you were in the area on Boxing Day, you might hold vital information so please come forward.”

Anyone with information about the incident or who may be responsible is urged to contact Ulverston police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police advise motorists to take care driving

2012-01-03T12:52:00.003Z

Cumbria police are urging motorists to take extra care and lower their speed as the county experiences high winds.

Gales of up to 70 mph have hit Cumbria and motorists are advised to take take care when driving by lowering their speed.

A number of reports have been received across the region regarding disruption on roads due to fallen trees and branches:
- 07:36 am a report was received of a wagon on the hard shoulder on the M6 southbound near to Tebay, Penrith, which is believed to have been blown off the road by the high winds. This is clear of the carriage way and is not currently causing a disruption.
- 07:38 a report of a tree in the road on the A66 at Kirby Thore, Penrith. Police are in attendance.
- 07:55 am a report was received of a tree branch in the road on the A590 Crooklands, Milnthorpe. Police are currently attending.

Police are urging motorists to slow down, take extra care and avoid taking any unnecessary journeys.

Check the Traffic Link section of Cumbria Constabulary’s website (www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic) which is designed to provide information about the current state of Cumbria’s roads and the immediate surrounding areas in relation to road traffic collisions, weather, and delays as a result of incidents and congestion. The information provided is sourced from police and the Highways Agency and is updated every 10 minutes.

Details of road closures can be found by logging on to www.bbc.co.uk/travelnews/local/cumbria.shtml or by listening to BBC Radio Cumbria.

Check weather reports through your local media.

Christmas Drink and Drugs Driving Campaign 2011 – Interim Results

2011-12-23T14:30:00.002Z

Cumbria police are continuing to target drink drivers over the festive period.

The annual crackdown began on 1st December, and officers have so far conducted 1,690 breath tests, 37 of which tested positive, meaning that 2.2 per cent of motorists breathalysed have tested positive.

In 2010, 1,641 breath tests were taken throughout the whole of December with a total of 58 drivers providing positive breath tests. This meant that 3.5 per cent of motorists tested during the 2010 Christmas Drink Drive campaign were over the limit.

This suggests that a smaller proportion of motorists appear to be drink driving in 2011, which is great news, but officers are still concerned that a small minority of drivers continue to get behind the wheel when over the limit.

Fewer breath tests were taken in 2010 because the bad weather meant that the county’s roads were much quieter.

Inspector Andy Wilkinson from Cumbria’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “It’s pleasing to see a reduction in the proportion of positive breath tests so far this year, but it is still extremely worrying that a minority of road users continue to put the rest of us at risk by getting behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.
“The next few days will see parties and celebrations taking place across the county, so I am keen to remind people to plan ahead, and make sure they have transport arranged to get home safely.
“The effects of driving under the influence of drink and drugs can be devastating and will not be tolerated in Cumbria.
“We don’t want to stop people enjoying themselves over the festive season, but the fact is that alcohol, even in small doses, impairs your reaction times and makes you more dangerous behind the wheel.
“Police are doing all they can to make Cumbria’s roads safer, but it is up to all of us to spread the word that drink driving is unacceptable. If you know someone who is taking the risk, confront them if you can, or report them to police.
“Many drivers forget that if you’ve been drinking the previous night you may still be over the limit the following morning, so think about how you are going to travel to work or get around the morning after the night before.”
“We will continue to crack down on drink drivers over the festive period. Everyone should take responsibility for road safety by reminding friends and family to drive safely and by reporting anyone they know to be drink or drug driving to police immediately.”

You can follow the Cumbria Roads Policing Unit on their Twitter account @cumbriaroadspol

We say 'NO' to domestic abuse in Barrow. Please report it.

2011-12-23T13:09:00.001Z

Please don't suffer in silence.

What is domestic violence? Please click on the link to the Women's Aid website which has lots of information and may help you decide to report your abuse.

Victims of domestic abuse in the Barrow area can contact the South Cumbria Independent Domestic Violence Advisors for help and advice on: 01229 582386

You can also e-mail them on: letgo@impacthousing.org.uk

In an emergency always ring the police on 999
To report Domestic Violence when it is NOT an emergency please ring your local police on their new non-emergency number: 101

Not in my home
You can also report Domestic Violence online at: http://www.notinmyhome.co.uk/ This can be about yourself, or someone you are concerned about and you do not have to give your details.

Victims of Domestic Violence in the Barrow-in furness area who require emergency accommodation please ring Barrow Borough Council Housing on: 01229 876332 or 876489 or out of hours: 01229 833311

24 hour National Domestic Violence FREEPHONE Helpline: 0808 2000 247

The Freephone 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline, run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge, is a national service for women experiencing domestic violence, their family, friends, colleagues and others calling on their behalf.

The Helpline can give support, help and information over the telephone, wherever the caller might be in the country. The Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day by fully trained female helpline support workers and volunteers. All calls are completely confidential. Translation facilities for callers whose first language is not English, and a service for callers who are deaf or hard of hearing are available.

For more information please log on to: http://www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk/

Childline: 0800 11 11
ChildLine is the free 24-hour helpline for children and young people in the UK. Children and young people can call their helpline on 0800 1111 about any problem, at any time - day or night. Children who are deaf or find using a regular phone difficult can use their textphone service on 0800 400 222. ChildLine's counsellors are there to help you find ways to sort things out.
ChildLine is confidential - which means they won't tell anyone about your call unless you want ChildLine to talk to somebody for you, or you are in danger.
Their lines can be busy but please keep trying and you will get through.

Police Authority announce changes to police estate in Cumbria

2011-12-21T09:33:00.005Z

Better estate. Better service. Better value.

As a result of Government budget cuts, Cumbria Constabulary needs to save £20.3million by 2016, which is equivalent to a 20 per cent fall in income.

To achieve this, the Constabulary has been conducting a series of reviews to identify savings. This included a review of Cumbria’s police estate, which has looked at every Police Station and office building across Cumbria to ensure they provide value for money and meet the requirements of local communities and Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

A series of recommendations was presented to the Police Authority, who own the police estate, at a meeting yesterday (20th December), where they made final decisions about the future of each police building.

Some buildings will be upgraded, some officers and PCSOs will move into shared accommodation to save on running and maintenance costs, and a small number of buildings that are under-occupied and underused will close.

The money saved will be used to improve the overall quality of the police estate and help protect visible policing in Cumbria.

A separate review is underway to consider the future of front counter services across the county.

Barrow Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team
Improving the estate used by the Barrow Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team is a priority for the Police Authority.

Barrow Police Station is outdated and, even with major refurbishment, would not be fit for purpose.

Consequently, the Police Authority and Constabulary are drafting plans to build a new police station and custody suite at a new site in the town.

The Police Authority want to invest in the future and improve the policing service in South Cumbria, so some of the money generated by the sale of buildings and related savings around the county will help pay for these much needed improvements to be made. This will maintain the standard of the policing service in the area and make the estate finances sustainable in the future.
Barrow Police Station will remain in use in the short term and a separate project will plan the construction of a new police station and custody suite.

Other accommodation used by the Barrow Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team includes an office on Dalton Road, which is used as an operating base for officers and PCSOs working in the town centre, and this will remain in use.

Dalton-in-Furness Police Station is too big for operational need and is only 4 miles away from the main operating base in Barrow. The team want to maintain a base in the Dalton, however, so will move into shared accommodation at Dalton Fire Station, which will maintain a policing presence in the town and save in annual running costs and generate income when the station is sold.

A separate review will consider the future of a front counter service in Barrow and Dalton.

Savings
The implementation of changes across the county (changes to other areas listed at the end of this post) will save approximately £119,000 per year in running costs and is expected to raise in the region of £2.8million through the sale of buildings.

The Chairman of Cumbria Police Authority, Ray Cole, said: “The way Cumbria is policed has changed dramatically over recent years, and officers are no longer reliant upon static police buildings.
“The number of people visiting Police Stations has also been in steady decline for many years, with members of the community preferring to contact police via phone and email.
“The Constabulary has invested heavily in mobile working technology and officers can now complete paperwork and access police systems by accessing mobile devices while in the community, vastly reducing the need for them to use Police Stations. Detectives can also interview people using mobile recording equipment.
“All of this means that the traditional view of a Police Station is no longer a reality. Officers spend the majority of their time in the community, leaving many of our buildings oversized, underused and outdated.
“Consequently, it doesn’t make financial sense to keep investing in them, when the funds can be used to improve the quality of the police estate and maintain a visible policing service in the community.
“We have looked closely at each building and worked with local councils and the fire service to consider how we could share office space, and save money for all public services in Cumbria.
“We have approved a raft of changes that will save money for years to come, improve the flexibility and usability of the police estate in Cumbria and generate income to improve accommodation for Neighbourhood Policing Teams and the community.”

Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde added: “As a result of Government spending cuts, Cumbria Constabulary has to save £20.3million by 2016. This sparked a review of our police estate, which showed that the way the community and policing teams use our buildings has changed significantly over recent years.
“Many of our Police Stations are outdated, too big for operational need, expensive to maintain and no longer fit for purpose.
“Communities tell us that they want to see officers and PCSOs in the community, rather than sitting behind a desk, so it is vital that we modernise our police estate, and ensure that our accommodation meets the needs of a police force in the 21st Century. Once we have made these changes we will continue to review our estate to ensure it provides better value and helps us deliver a better service in the future.
“I understand that people in Cumbria will feel a certain level of reassurance in seeing a police building in their community, but it is our officers and staff that provide a service, not our estate.
“The structure of our Policing Teams will not change and the way people contact police, via the phone or via the web, will not change. Officers and PCSOs will continue patrolling as normal and will be even more visible in local communities.
“We want to create a better estate for a better service. Our ultimate aim is to provide the best policing service that we can afford so that Cumbria remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”

Changes that will be made to the rest of Cumbria:

South Lakes & Ulverston Neighbourhood Policing Team

No noticeable changes are proposed to the estate used by the South Lakes & Ulverston Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Ulverston and Windermere Police Stations will both remain in use.
Ambleside Police Station is used both by the Neighbourhood Policing Team and the Parish Council, but is too big for operational need. The building consists of a police station with adjoining annex attached to a house. The police station and house will be sold, and police and the Parish Council will continue using the annex. This will maintain an operating policing base in the town, will save on annual running costs and will generate income when the buildings are sold.
A separate review will consider the future of front counter services in South Lakes & Ulverston.

Carlisle East and Carlisle West Neighbourhood Policing Teams

No changes are proposed for the police estate in the Carlisle area, which underwent recent changes when the state-of-the art Police Station at Durranhill opened in 2009 after the city’s original Police Station at Rickergate was flooded in 2005.
Durranhill Police Station will remain in use and will continue to be used as the area headquarters for North Cumbria and the base for the Carlisle East Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Shadygrove Rd Police Station in Carlisle will remain in use, and will remain the base for the Carlisle West Neighbourhood Policing Team.
The Carlisle East Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue using shared office space at Carlisle Civic Centre as a base for officers and PCSOs working in the city centre.
Brampton Neighbourhood Policing Team
Only minor changes are proposed to the estate used by the Brampton Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Brampton Police Station will remain in use, and will remain the base for the Brampton Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Longtown Police Station will also remain in use and officers and PCSOs covering the Dalston area will continue to use shared office space at St Michael’s School.
Alston Police Station is too big for operational need, so the Police Authority will sell the existing station to generate income, and officers and PCSOs working in the town will relocate to the Topps Building, which is next to the existing station. This will maintain an operating police base in the town, and will save on annual running costs and generate income when the station is sold. There is no existing front counter service in Alston, and no plans to open one in the future.

Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team
No noticeable changes are currently planned to the estate used by the Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team, which covers Penrith, Appleby and the Eden Valley.
Penrith Police Station at Hunter Lane will remain in use, and will remain the central base for the Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Appleby Police Station will remain in use and will continue being used as a base for officers and PCSOs when policing in Appleby.
Kirkby Stephen Police Station is too big for operational need and consists of a police station with an adjoining annex. The main bulk of the station is no longer used, so will be sold, and the Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue using the annex. This will maintain a police presence in the town, save on annual running costs and generate income when the police station is sold.

Carleton Hall in Penrith will remain in use as the Police Headquarters for Cumbria Constabulary.

Allerdale Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team
The police buildings currently used by the Allerdale Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team are old, are not fit-for-purpose and are not situated in the best locations to provide the optimum service to communities living in rural Allerdale, which stretches from Silloth to Keswick.
The team currently operates from stations and buildings in Wigton, Keswick and Cockermouth.
These will be sold in order to fund the creation of a more efficient, functional and better located estate, with a new central base in Cockermouth and operating bases in Silloth, Aspatria, Wigton and Keswick. These changes will save on annual running costs and improve the dispersal of officers across the area.
The future of the front counter services in rural Allerdale will be considered in a separate review.
Two new shared operating bases will be opened in Silloth Fire Station and Aspatria Fire Station, providing accommodation for officers and PCSOs in both towns for the first time in a number of years. There are no plans to open front counter services in the towns, but residents can continue making appointments with local officers and police patrols in both areas will continue as normal.
Cockermouth Police Station is not fit-for-purpose and is expensive to maintain. It lacks in parking and does not provide sufficient, suitable space for the team. The existing station will be sold to generate income and the Neighbourhood Policing Team will relocate to a new building with better road links. The Constabulary and Police Authority are currently in talks to secure a new building in the town.
Keswick Police Station is too big for operational need and is underused by the Allerdale Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers and PCSOs spending their time in the community rather than in the office. Officers and PCSOs using the station will relocate to shared accommodation in Keswick Fire Station, which will maintain an operating base in the town, save on annual running costs and generate income when the building is sold.
Wigton Police Station is also too big for operational need and is underused by the Allerdale Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers and PCSOs spending their time in the community rather than in the office. Officers and PCSOs using the station will relocate to shared accommodation in the Local Links building and the Police Station will be sold to generate income. This will maintain a presence in the town, save on annual running costs and generate income when the building is sold.

Allerdale Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team
The central base for the Allerdale Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team is located in Workington Police Station, which will remain in use.
The Maryport station is too big for operational need and is underused by the Allerdale Borough Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers and PCSOs spending their time in the community rather than in the office. Consequently, officers and PCSOs using the building will relocate to shared accommodation at Maryport Fire Station, which will maintain an operating base in the town, save on annual running costs and generate income when the building is sold.
Sharing accommodation with partner agencies has worked well in Carlisle and Sedbergh, where police share office space with the City Council and Fire Service respectively. This has saved money and improved services to the community, as partners can tackle issues together from the same location.
The future of front counter services in Workington and Maryport will be considered in a separate review.

Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team
The Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team covers the whole of Copeland, from Whitehaven to Millom. The current estate is inefficient, costly and underused, so a number of changes have been approved by the Police Authority.
The team will continue to use Whitehaven Police Station as a base.
Cleator Moor Police Station is too big for operational need and is underused by the Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers and PCSOs spending their time in the community rather than in the office. Whitehaven Police Station is only 4 miles away, so the Police Authority has approved the closure and sale of Cleator Moor Police Station, which will have no impact on policing patrols or emergency response in the town. The closure will save on annual running costs and will generate income when the building is sold. There is currently no front counter service in the town, and none is planned for the future.
Egremont Police Station is also too big for operational need and similarly underused by the Copeland Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers and PCSOs spending their time in the community rather than in the office. Officers and PCSOs using the station will relocate to shared accommodation in Egremont Fire Station, which will maintain an operating base in the town and save money in annual running costs. The building will be sold to generate income. The future of a front counter service in the town will be considered in a separate review.
Millom Police Station is underused by the Neighbourhood Policing Team, with officers spending more time in the community than in the office, making the building expensive to run compared to how much it is used. Officers and PCSOs using the station will therefore relocate to shared accommodation in the Millom Network Centre, which will maintain an operating base in the town and save on annual running costs and will generate income when the building is sold. The future of a front counter service in the town will be considered in a separate review.

Kendal Neighbourhood Policing Team
No noticeable changes will be made to the estate used by the Kendal Neighbourhood Policing Team, which has seen recent improvement with refurbishments to Kendal Police Station.
Kendal Police Station will remain in use and will remain the central base for the Kendal Neighbourhood Policing Team, having undergone major refurbishments, including the construction of a brand new, state-of-the-art custody suite.
PCSOs based in Sedbergh Police Station recently relocated and are now successfully sharing office space with the local fire service personnel at Sedbergh Fire Station. This is saving on annual running costs, and the sale of the building will generate further income.
Milnthorpe Police Station is too big for operational need and consists of a purpose built Police Station annex attached to a house. The house is no longer used, so will be sold, and the Neighbourhood Policing Team will continue using the annex. This will maintain an operating base in the town, will save on annual running costs and will generate income when the building is sold.

Don’t let a loan shark ruin your Christmas

2011-12-20T16:47:00.001Z

“My loan spiralled out of control. I paid back £90,000 on a £250 car – for that I could have bought a really nice car, bought my house outright and my kids could have lived a life of luxury- instead the loan shark was living the life of luxury. It was 17 years of sheer hell- no way to live”- ‘Mike’, Loan Shark Victim.

“Pure and simply loan sharks are criminals who prey on vulnerable communities and fleece their victims out of hard earned cash, often through intimidation and violence. I would encourage anyone in difficulty with a loan shark to call the confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222. And to those who might be considering taking out an illegal loan in the run up to Christmas, I urge you- don’t do it”- Consumer Affairs Minister, Edward Davey.

Christmas can be costly, and this year as more and more people find themselves strapped for cash, illegal money lenders more commonly known as loan sharks have been known to take advantage. These criminals are to be avoided at all costs.

An estimated 310,000 households borrowed from a loan shark this year, with 20% of victims taking out the loan to fund Christmas. Often people find that they are paying for this well into the New Year and beyond.

Loan sharks often target those who would struggle to access credit through legitimate sources. They are often friends with the borrower at first but once payments are missed many will become intimidating, threatening or violent.

Loan sharks rarely offer paperwork, keeping their borrowers in the dark. They will often refuse to tell the borrower how much they owe, how much longer they have to pay and how much interest they are paying on top ( in some cases interest has been as high as a staggering 131,000% APR)

Loan sharks gain complete control of the victims and their finances. In some cases the loan sharks have taken the borrowers bank and post office card with the PIN to withdraw directly from their accounts, leaving them with nothing or very little to get by on.

As these debts are not enforceable in law, many loan sharks will resort to bully tactics to enforce repayment.

However help is at hand from a national team, cracking down on loan sharks. The England Illegal Money Lending Team will investigate and prosecute loan sharks for illegal money lending and any offences linked to this, in the past this has included blackmail, threatening behaviour, violence, kidnap, drugs offences and rape. We are urging anyone who has borrowed from a loan shark to contact us in confidence.

More than 190 prosecutions have been secured leading to 117 years worth of custodial sentences, and more than 16,000 victims have been helped. Anne* a single mum from Manchester was one of these. She tells her story below;

It was coming up to Christmas, and Anne was worrying about affording presents for her two young children. Spotting an advert in her local paper for unsecured loans, she decided to call the number.

A man answered, and told her he would be able to lend her £150, but it would need to be secured on something. He came to her home and took her passport, explaining that this would be returned once she had repaid in full. He explained that she would need to repay £15 each week plus an extra £10 a week in interest. She knew this was steep but she was desperate and believed she would be able to pay back within a few months with her wages from working in a shop.

In the January, Anne fell ill and was unable to work. As a result of this she defaulted on a couple of payments. She was resting at home with her six year old daughter, when the loan shark barged in with two other men, demanding to know why she hadn’t paid. They pulled electrical items out of her living room, claiming the loan was secured against these.

Anne was terrified. “There was nowhere to go” she said “I wasn’t even safe in my own house. I was screaming, crying, pleading with him not take my stuff. To think, that my little girl had to see that.”

A few days later she received a note from the loan shark through her door, to tell her that an extra £100 had been added to the debt for the ‘bailiff’ visit. From that point onwards, she paid the loan shark religiously retaining the post office slips as proof of payment. However the loan shark still appeared at her door, alleging she’d missed payments. He would turn up late at night and on once occasion Anne had to hide, as he tried to climb in through her kitchen window. For every visit he would add an extra charge of £80 to £100.

This continued for 5 years, with Anne paying back around £5000 on the loan of £150.

The England Illegal Money Lending Team caught the loan shark, and discovered Anne was not alone in her experience. The loan shark had around 900 ‘customers’ who he was harassing for payments, he believed to be due. He was given a lengthy custodial sentence and stripped of £270,000, money he had made illegally.

Anne said “It was such a weight of my shoulders. It had got to the point where my nerves were shot and I was too frightened to answer the door. I’d realised he was never ever going to go away. If he hadn’t been arrested I’d probably still be paying him now”

If you believe you have borrowed from a loan shark, contact the England Illegal Money Lending Team in confidence as we can help.

To report a loan shark:
Call the 24/7 confidential hotline 0300 555 2222 Emailreportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk
Text ‘loan shark + your message’ to 60003
Log-on to www.direct.gov.uk/stoploansharks
Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/stoploansharksproject

*Name has been changed.

Cumbria's new sexual healthline number

2011-12-20T11:28:00.002Z

Sexual Healthline Cumbria is a single number which provides signposting to the various sexual health and contraceptive services across the county; along with help booking an appointment where appropriate. Call handlers will not offer clinical advice but will direct people to the most suitable service for their needs.

The confidential phone line is aimed at everyone: old and young, gay and straight, men and women.

Victim Support seek Community Volunteers

2011-12-16T12:46:00.001Z

Victim Support are looking for volunteers to join their team.

The volunteers will help to support victims of crime within South Cumbria. The role involves giving confidential emotional and practical support, promoting the organisation, fundraising and taking part in partnership working events.

They are looking for those of you with good listening and communication skills, those who can be non-judgemental and have an approachable and friendly manner. Full training and reimbursement of expenses is provided.

You are also required to undertake an enhanced CRB check.

For an application pack please contact Katherine on 01229 839989.

Police urge motorists to take extra care due to hazardous road conditions

2011-12-16T10:31:00.000Z

Cumbria police are urging motorists to take extra care and drive to the conditions after a layer of snow and falling temperatures have created hazardous driving conditions – particularly in the west of the county.

Officers have been called to three incidents on the A595 at Moota this morning where motorists have slid off the road. Highways have attended but officers are urging motorists to slow down, allow extra time for their journeys and drive to the conditions. This advice is particularly important for those driving on back roads.

Police offer the following advice:
• Allow extra time and distance to brake as it can take ten times longer to stop in wet or icy conditions
• Adapt your driving behaviour. Keep in mind the decreased visibility and changing road conditions.
• Slow down and avoid sudden or jerky movements
• When driving on ice or snow use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Be wary of satellite navigation systems as they tend to direct you over high rural roads that are likely to be closed or particularly hazardous in winter
• Do not assume that pedestrians have seen you. They may be elderly, young or not be able to hear you
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads if the water seems too deep
• Drive slowly through water in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling
• Test your brakes when you have driven through a flood before you drive again at normal speed

Pavements are just as susceptible to freezing as roads, so take care when walking as well as when driving.

Safety advice for motorists:
• Plan your journey in advance
• Check local and national weather forecasts and tune into local radio stations to check on road conditions and closures
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive and ensure you have a charged mobile phone with you
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade
• Clear your windows and mirrors fully before you set off and carry a screen scraper and de-icer

If you have an accident, break-down or become stuck in bad weather conditions:
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call
• On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone because the emergency services and breakdown recovery services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder
• If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you

Vehicle maintenance:
• Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow – remember also to clear your vehicle roof of compacted snow in case it dislodges while you drive, as this could be dangerous to other road users
• Keep your battery fully charged
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer
• Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order
• Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure. Consider changing to high performance winter tyres.

Visit the Traffic Link section of Cumbria Constabulary’s website (www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map) for live updates on traffic and road disruption across the county. This is designed to provide you with information regarding the current state of Cumbria’s roads and the immediate surrounding areas in relation to road traffic collisions, weather, and delays as a result of incidents and congestion. This page is regularly updated and refreshes every 10 minutes.

To keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts, visit the Met Office website: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

You can also contact the Cumbria Highways Hotline on 0845 609 6609.

Access Cumbria Police website and new traffic info service from your mobile phone

2011-12-16T10:05:00.001Z

A new mobile version of the Cumbria Police website has been launched, meaning people can access latest crime news, traffic updates and policing information on the move.

The new version of the site is accessible from mobile devices, enables residents to find details about their local officers and upcoming community meetings on the move, and allows them to connect with their Neighbourhood Policing Teams through social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook direct from their mobile phones.

Over the past year, Cumbria Police has seen an increase in the number of people accessing their website using a mobile device, so now, when a person logs on to http://www.cumbria.police.uk/ the site will automatically revert to a mobile version that is specifically designed to be viewed on a device with a small screen.

The launch of the mobile site coincides with the launch of a new online traffic service that is available from the Cumbria Police website homepage, and contains live updates about road closures and delays across the county.

The traffic updates service can be viewed through a mobile device or computer by visiting the homepage of the Constabulary’s website or by going to www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic

Information from Police and the Highways Agency automatically feeds into the webpage, so it offers the most up-to-date traffic information available in Cumbria.

The webpage shows a map of Cumbria featuring small flag symbols that highlight the location of delays or road closures due to weather, collisions, major roadworks or police incidents. By clicking on the flags, you can get further details about the problem, and alter your route accordingly.

The service is updated as incidents happen and the information refreshes every ten minutes.

Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde said: “The mobile website and traffic updates service demonstrate how police in Cumbria are embracing new technology to help us improve our service to the public.
“The mobile site provides yet another avenue to share important information, and offers a simple and cost effective way for the public to engage with local police in Cumbria.
“The police service, by its very nature, has access to a lot of information relating to road traffic collisions and other incidents, and the Traffic Link service lets us share that knowledge with the local community.
“Improving road safety is a top priority for Cumbria Police, and by keeping motorists informed about road closures and delays, we hope to encourage motorists to allow extra time if necessary, or plan a new route, which will help ease congestion around the county and improve road safety in Cumbria.”

Passive drug dogs sniff out festive troublemakers in Barrow

2011-12-15T14:21:00.000Z

Passive drugs dogs are helping officers to police the streets of Barrow in the lead up to Christmas as part of a policing operation to stamp out the use of illegal substances.

As well as using passive drugs dogs on the streets of Barrow, over the past two weekends the Barrow Community Policing team have conducted five search warrants after receiving information about the use of drugs during the local night time economy. So far, these have been carried out on Devon Street, Gloucester Street, Maple Street and Albert Street.

So far, six people have been arrested and are currently on bail as a result of these warrants.

Barrow Neighbourhood Policing team have also joined forces with dog handlers and their passive drug dogs who have helped to sniff out any illegal substances on revellers who are enjoying Barrow’s nightlife.

Passive drug detection dogs are specially trained to patrol crowded areas quietly indicating when they detect the scent of illegal drugs on a person. This indication then gives the police the ability to search individuals and take action if drugs are located.

Inspector David Bosson said: “So far, this operation has been well received and supported by the licensees in Barrow who are, like us, determined to eradicate drugs in their premises and help ensure Barrow remains a safe pace to enjoy a night out.
“In fact, we often get called by trained doorstaff who have been alerted to somebody who is suspected to be in possession of illegal substances. This demonstrates excellent partnership working and we then dispatch officers to attend, and arrest and prosecute anyone who is found to be in possession of drugs.
“Apart from being illegal, if you take drugs you seriously risk your health and you essentially gamble with your life. Taking drugs often leads people into a life of violent crime and people can find that they lose everything – their jobs, family and friends.
“Drugs can destroy communities so we will continue to carry out more proactive drug operations to positively tackle anyone who is found to be in possession of drugs.”

Police warn small businesses of advertising scam

2011-12-15T14:17:00.004Z

Cumbria Constabulary is urging small businesses in the county to be on their guard if they are contacted by publishing or advertising companies that attempt to invoice them for an advert that they have not asked for.

Police have been made aware of a scam where invoices and covering letters are sent to businesses that they have not had previous contact with, thanking them for placing an advert and enclosing an invoice for the advert placement.

Detective Inspector Amanda Spedding said: “This type of scam induces a business to pay for placing an advert in a publication which either does not exist or only produces a limited number of copies in order to appear legitimate.
“They use misleading words to sell advertising space in various types of publications and often claim the publication is produced on behalf of, or alongside some reputable and worthy-sounding cause or charity.
“We are urging companies to be vigilant and cautious if they receive invoices from publishing companies for advertising space. Check whether someone within their business has requested the advert first and check the credentials of any cold callers selling advertising space before parting with any money to avoid falling foul of any scams.”

If you believe you have been subject to a scam or to report suspicious activity to police, call Cumbria Constabulary on their new non-emergency number 101.

Do you recognise this man?

2011-12-15T14:15:00.001Z

Detectives want to speak to this man in connection with a burglary that occurred in Barrow on Saturday 1 October 2011.

His name is Miguel Bossio and he is 31-yrs-old and from Barrow.

If you know of Miguel’s whereabouts, or have seen a man fitting his description, please contact Detective Sergeant Helen Ellis from South Cumbria CID on the police's new non-emergency number 101.

you can also provide information anonymously by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Do you recognise this man?

2011-12-15T14:13:00.001Z

Detectives want to speak to this man in connection with a burglary that occurred in Kendal on Saturday 10th September 2011.

His name is Jonathon Calvert and he is 25-yrs-old and from Kendal.

If you know of Jonathon’s whereabouts, or have seen a man fitting his description, please contact Detective Sergeant Helen Ellis from South Cumbria CID on the police's new non-emergency number 101

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Police issue stark warning to metal thieves across the county

2011-12-15T14:10:00.000Z

Cumbria police are warning metal thieves that they are not only risking their own lives but also the safety of the wider community after officers suspect the disruption to telephone lines in the county this weekend was caused by criminals searching for metal.

The problem started on Friday evening (9th December) when telephone cabling belonging to BT was damaged in the West Cumbria area. As a result, communities across west and south Cumbria were affected with problems with their telephones and internet connections. The problem was fully rectified by BT on Saturday evening.

Cumbria Constabulary has launched an investigation and have today issued a stark warning to thieves who are on the look out for metal that they are taking serious risks – not only with their own safety and future, but the lives of other innocent community members.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Qazi is Cumbria Constabulary’s lead investigator for metal thefts. He said: “West Cumbria CID has launched a full and thorough investigation into this incident as we suspect that the individuals responsible for the widespread disruption this weekend cut through the telephone cabling looking for metal.
“If this is the case, this incident highlights the dangers and risks that these types of offenders are taking. When you cut into wire or cabling, you cannot be sure what is running through it. Whoever damaged the cabling this weekend was very lucky that they didn’t hit a live wire carrying electricity – as this could have had tragic consequences.
“Instead, the damage they caused had a significant impact on innocent members of the public who were without telephone lines for up to 24 hours. To those who are vulnerable and see their phone as a life line, this was incredibly distressing and caused real concern amongst families and neighbours.
“Cumbria Constabulary is committed to investigating all reports of metal thefts as a priority because when these thefts do occur, they often cause disruption to the wider public and, due to where the metals are often stolen from, can risk the community’s infrastructure.
“Detectives are now trying to trace those responsible and are appealing for the community to be vigilant. If you see anything suspicious or see people trying to sell scrap metal under unusual circumstances, please report your suspicions to police so that we can investigate.
“We work closely with scrap metal dealers across Cumbria and take part in regular operations with partner agencies and colleagues from police forces outside the county’s borders so that we can send out a strong message to anyone who thinks they can travel into the area to commit this type of crime with no regard for the consequences. We will catch you and we will do everything we can to take you before the courts so that justice can be served.”

Anyone who witnesses anything suspicious or has information about the incident that could help police with their investigation is urged to contact Cumbria police on their new non-emergency number 101.

You can also report information anonymously via the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Don’t let thieves steal your Christmas

2011-12-15T12:21:00.000Z

Cumbria Constabulary has launched its annual campaign to ensure people keep their home and belongings safe this Christmas.

During the festive period many people will be concentrating on preparations for Christmas, by buying gifts, decorating the tree and stocking up on food and drink. Unfortunately there is a small minority who can cause misery at this time of year by breaking into people’s homes.

In order to help remind people to be security conscious, Cumbria Constabulary is dedicated to trying to prevent residents from becoming victims of a crime by stepping up their efforts to deter offenders and raise awareness of the precautions residents should be take to protect their homes and Christmas presents over the holiday period.

Don't forget to lock your windows even if you are just nipping out

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer: “Cumbria is one of the safest places to live. However we don’t want people to get complacent or lax with their home security.
“We are committed to ensuring that this doesn’t happen this year and in addition to strengthening police patrols in our neighbourhoods to reassure residents and deter thieves, there will be local initiatives ongoing to provide communities with all the tools, equipment and information they need to keep themselves and their property secure this Christmas.
“In the next few weeks people will be out and about shopping for their Christmas presents and then exchanging gifts. I urge people to think about were to keep your presents, thieves can target houses with Christmas presents on view so we would urge everyone to be vigilant – don’t let thieves steal your Christmas.”

Police offer the following top tips to keep your house safe:
- Keep gifts, cash & valuables safe & well hidden so they can’t be seen or reached by thieves
- Lock doors & windows before you go out, removing keys from locks & keep them out of reach
- Leave a light on in a room & draw curtains when you go out at night
- Postcode your valuables with a UV pen, considering registering them on www.immobilise.com
- Cancel newspapers, milk etc when you go on holiday
- Look out for your neighbours property
- Make sure callers to your home are genuine, always ask for ID

Posters and leaflets with crime prevention messages will seen across Cumbria in the coming weeks and will be a reminder to people to make sure they take all of the necessary preventative steps to ensure their property and belongings are safe over the festival period.

Lock your door even if you are just nipping next door.

For more information or advice on home security visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/news/campaigns/christmas-campaigns-and-safety-advice/dont-let-thieves-steal-your-christmas

To report any suspicious activity to a police officer please contact a member of your local policing team on their new non-emergency number 101. If you witness a crime in action, always dial 999.

Violence crackdown in the countdown to Christmas

2011-12-15T11:59:00.002Z

Police officers across Cumbria are cracking down on alcohol and drug-related violence and disorder to ensure party-goers can enjoy themselves safely in the countdown to Christmas.

With only ten days to go, officers will target busy town centres and focus on defusing incidents before they escalate into violence. They will work with licensed premises to try and prevent people who are already drunk being served further alcohol.

This will be particularly noticeable on ‘Festive Friday’ – the last Friday before Christmas – which is traditionally one of the busiest nights of the year for pubs and clubs across the county.

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “Reducing violent crime is one of the top priorities for local communities and everyone in Cumbria has a right to enjoy a night out this Christmas without intimidation or the fear of violence.
“We launched a personal safety campaign at the beginning of December to encourage people to enjoy themselves but keep hold of their senses – and this is particularly important over the next ten days as people finish work and spend more time socialising and drinking with friends.
“Christmas is a time when everyone indulges but, from a policing point of view, it is a time that we come into contact with people who would not normally get into trouble. People can sometimes get carried away and drink too much, lose control of their senses and end up getting involved in violence or disorder – much to their horror the next day.
“Officers will be out on the county’s streets in the lead up to Christmas to try and help reduce incidents of this nature through early intervention and targeted, intelligence-led policing in a bid to stop incidents escalating into violence but we are urging everybody to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of those around them by enjoying themselves– without going too far.
“When you think about the consequences of drinking too much and losing your senses it’s just not worth it. You can ruin your Christmas before it’s begun by getting arrested, being sent home or being banned from all pubs and clubs in the area.”

Posters that highlight the consequences of people losing control of their senses are being displayed in shops, pubs and clubs around the county and short adverts are being played throughout December on CFM Radio.

As part of the ongoing personal safety ‘Keys, Money, Phone, Plans to Get Home’ campaign, police officers will continue to hand out information in credit card size that prompts people to consider how they will be getting home and provides a space to write an ‘In Case of Emergency’ (ICE) contact number, should they lose their mobile phones. With support from Crime and Reduction Partnerships from around the county, officers will also be issuing free ‘spikeys’ - plastic stoppers that prevent bottled drinks from being spiked and personal attack alarms in some of the bigger areas such as Carlisle, Brampton, Penrith, Workington, Whitehaven, Kendal and Barrow.

The campaign encourages people planning a night out to follow this advice:
• Think: Keys, money, phone, plans to get home?
• Stick with your friends and look out for each other
• Stash some cash in case you lose your purse or wallet
• Pre-book a taxi home
• Don't make yourself vulnerable by getting too drunk
• Store an ICE (in case of emergency) number in your phone

Police use Facebook to reunite lost camera with its owner on the other side of the world

2011-12-13T16:17:00.006Z

Police in the South Lakes have reunited a woman from Australia with her digital camera she lost while visiting the area – all thanks to Facebook.

Officers used the social networking site to track down the camera’s owner after exhausting other lines of enquiry in a bid to get the camera back into the right pair of hands.

The camera was handed into officers during the Air Show that took place on the Glebe, Windermere in July this year a short time after Ms Paula Noack reported the loss of her camera to officers at a police tent at the event. She informed police that she was visiting the area from abroad but did not provide her address due to the fact that she in the process of moving house.

PC Jim Bell said: “The digital camera was handed into us shortly after Ms Noack reported her camera as lost. Unfortunately, we didn’t have the correct contact details for her so for a while we were at a loss as to how we could get the camera back to her.
“She had provided a contact number but did not give the correct dialling code – so despite trying several different country codes, we were unsuccessful.
“We discovered that the camera contained photographs of Ms Noack’s around-the-world trip including photographs capturing memories of her time spent in South Lakeland. We recognised a woman in the photographs as the lady who approached us in the police tent, so decided to turn our attention to social networking sites and luckily enough, identified a Facebook profile in Ms Noack’s name with a profile picture that matched photographs on the camera.
“However, our quest didn’t end there as we were unable to contact her due to the security settings on her account - so had to message some of her friends to explain that we needed to get in touch with her.”

Ms Noack eventually got in touch with police after receiving messages from friends, and explained that she lived in Australia and confirmed that it was her camera. The camera was shipped over to her last month.

Ms Noack said: “Recently we travelled to the Windermere area on a holiday from Australia and unfortunately lost our camera which had many memorable photos from our time spent there. I was thrilled when, through Facebook, I was contacted by several of my friends to say that Cumbria Constabulary was trying to contact me as they had found my camera.
"After a few messages sent back and forth we confirmed that this was my camera and they very kindly mailed it back to me at no cost. It is amazing how Facebook can be used to track people all over the world. Now that I am friends with Cumbria Constabulary I am also seeing what is happening in a place which we enjoyed so very much. We really do appreciate the effort that police took to return the camera as you cannot replace photos and we are now spending time remembering all the fun we had by looking at each photo. I’d like to thank the officers again - we really appreciate all your efforts.”

PC Bell continued: “This shows how useful social networking sites like Facebook can be for police – they are effective, additional tools that we use that have a global reach. We use social networks on a daily basis and will continue to do so to help prevent and solve crime and engage with local residents and visitors from all over the world.”

More details about the new 101 number

2011-12-13T10:07:00.006Z

An easy to remember non-emergency police number is being launched across our region.

From Tuesday December 13, the public will be able to dial 101 to report non-emergency issues to police such as minor traffic collisions, criminal damage, or if they want to speak to a local neighbourhood officer about an issue affecting their community.

The new number is being introduced in the Cumbria, Cleveland, Durham, Northumbria and North Yorkshire force areas as part of a national roll-out in England and Wales designed to make it easier for people to contact police.

Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: "This simple number gives people one easy way to contact their local officers and to report crime and disorder that doesn’t require an emergency response.
"It will make us more accessible to our communities while reducing pressure on the 999 system, meaning every caller receives the best possible service."

The new number will replace Cumbria Constabulary’s current non-emergency number, 0845 33 00 247, but calls will still be answered in the same police communications centres by the same police personnel.

When calling 101, the system will determine the caller’s location and play a recorded message announcing the police force they’re being connected to. If they are on a boundary between two or more forces, the recorded message will give them a choice of which force to be connected to.

Calls to 101 will cost 15p per call, no matter what time of day it is, or how long the call lasts. This means everyone calling the police will know exactly how much a call will cost them, whether they’re calling from a landline or a mobile phone.

Senior police officers from each of the Constabularies participating in the roll out attended an official launch that took place in Durham Constabulary this morning, 13 December. All of the officers based themselves in the Force’s control room and were present when the first calls came through from the new ‘101’ number.

People should continue to call 999 in an emergency - when a crime is in progress, there is danger to life or violence is being used or threatened.

101 is not available in Scotland.

The police non-emergency number has changed

2011-12-12T12:03:00.002Z

The police non-emergency number, previously 0845 33 00 247, has been changed.

If you require the police and it is not an emergency please ring 101.

This is the new countrywide non-emergency number. When you ring 101, wherever you are in the country, you will be connected to the appropriate police force.

The 0845 number will continue to work for a little while to allow everyone to get used to the new number.

In an emergency always ring 999.

If it is not an emergency and you require the police, please ring 101 from today, Tuesday 13th December 2011.

The link below will take you to the police website where you will find further information.:
http://www.cumbria.police.uk/

Further updates about traffic and weather information

2011-12-08T15:44:00.001Z

Further to an earlier post....the police would like to make everyone aware of the Traffic Link section on their website - www.cumbria.police.uk/traffic-link-map. It provides live updates on traffic and road disruption across the county so please refer to this throughout the day to get the latest updates on road and traffic disruption, before giving them a call.

Traffic Link is designed to provide you with information regarding the current state of Cumbria’s roads and the immediate surrounding areas in relation to road traffic collisions, weather, and delays as a result of incidents and congestion. The information provided is sourced from police and the Highways Agency. It does not provide information about traffic delays due to roadworks, unless notified by ourselves or the Highways Agency. This page is regularly updated as incidents happen and the information refreshes every 10 minutes.

To keep up to date with flood warnings, visit the Environment Agency website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

Police named man who died in Barrow

2011-12-08T15:36:00.001Z

Police have today named the man who sadly died in Barrow yesterday (7th December) as Mark Leech, aged 45 from Anson Street, Barrow.

Police were called at 3:00 pm yesterday after he had been found in a collapsed state in a blue coloured Citroen Picasso car on waste ground adjacent to Schneider Road, Barrow. Paramedics attended but Mr Leech was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The police are not treating his death as suspicious and details have been passed to the coroner. However, they would like to hear from anyone who may have seen Mr Leech or the car during the afternoon.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Barrow Police on 0845 33 00 247.

If you would like to give information anonymously you can also ring the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Police urge motorists to take extra care in poor weather

2011-12-08T15:02:00.001Z

Cumbria police are urging motorists to take extra care as they travel around the county this morning due to heavy rainfall and strong winds creating extremely poor driving conditions.

There is a lot of standing water on roads across the county so police are urging motorists to drive to the conditions, take extreme care and not attempt to drive through flood waters.

Police have received a few calls this morning from motorists who have become stuck in flood water in the south of the county:
- At 7.44am, police were called by a man who got stuck in his vehicle while travelling through flood water on the A591 close to the Low Wood Hotel in Ambleside. Police attended and the road is currently impassable in both directions. The Council’s road clearing machine is in attendance in an attempt to clear the road. Highways have been informed.
- At 8.07am, police were called by a woman whose car broke down in a deep puddle on Thwaites Lane, Windermere. Police attended and the road is currently impassable in both directions.
- At 8.16am, a man called police to report that he was stuck in flood waters in a red Fiat on Moorhowe Road, Troutbeck. Police attended but the caller managed to get out before police arrived.
- At 8.35am, police were called to reports of a Ford Fiesta stuck in flood water on the south side of the A6, just past Selside. Police officers are currently attending.

Police are urging road users to take extra care and keep to lower speeds throughout the day as the county expects to experience strong winds of up to 60 – 70mph.

Details of road closures can be found by logging on to www.bbc.co.uk/travelnews/local/cumbria.shtml or by listening to BBC Radio Cumbria.

To keep up to date with flood warnings, visit the Environment Agency website at http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

Check weather reports through your local media.

Two Barrow men arrested after dawn raids

2011-12-08T14:53:00.001Z

Police have arrested two local men this morning following a dawn raid.

Plain clothed and uniformed police officers executed a search warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act at a flat in Egerton Court shortly after 8am this morning, 8 December 2011.

A substance, suspected to be Heroin with a street value of approximately £1,200 has been recovered, together with a quantity of cash.

The two local men aged 30 and 36 were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply. They remain in police custody at Barrow Police station where they are helping officers with their investigation.

Anyone with information about drug supply in their area can ring local police on 0845 33 00 247.

If you would like to provide information without revealing who you are then please ring the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

2011-12-08T14:29:00.001Z

Kendal police are appealing for witnesses after receiving reports that a 14 year old girl was assaulted as she was walking home from the town centre on Tuesday.

At around 8.40pm on Tuesday 6 December, a 14 year old girl from Kendal was walking from the town centre along the riverside path which runs past Abbot Hall Park and the parish church. She then crossed the road at Nether Bridge and walked along Milnthorpe Road, then South Road to the footpath on the left side of the road at the junction of West Street.

As she was walking towards the footpath, just past the River Fortune Chinese restaurant, she was approached from behind by a male who grabbed her around the waist. She managed to kick the man and get away and was not injured during the incident.

The incident was reported to police at 12:30pm yesterday afternoon (7 December) and an investigation has been launched.

Detective Sergeant Joanne Woods from Kendal CID said: “We are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Dowkers Lane and Waterside between 8.30pm – 9pm on Tuesday to think back. Did you see a young girl and a male in the area?
“Since we were informed about the incident we have been working to try and establish the motive and exact circumstances. The young girl was grabbed around the waist so we are investigating an assault, but she was also carrying a mobile phone so this may have been an attempted theft.
“We need to speak to members of the public who may have witnessed anybody acting suspiciously in the area so we can establish the circumstances. If you think you can help us with our enquiries, please contact Kendal CID on 0845 33 00 247.”

You can also pass information on anonymously by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

South Lakes police issue further warning after ATMs targeted again overnight

2011-12-07T15:02:00.001Z

Police in the South Lakes are renewing their warning to Christmas shoppers after offender(s) interfered with the same ATM machines in the area overnight.

Sometime during the early hours of this morning, Wednesday 7 December, ATMs at the Co-op in Bowness, Barclays in Ambleside and Barclays in Windermere were interfered with after offender(s) attached a silver coloured plastic strip to the cash dispenser.

Police issued a warning yesterday after the same cash machines were tampered with sometime during 4th and 5th December.

Officers were again called this morning at 5.50am after someone noticed a suspicious item on the Co-op ATM in Bowness. Police attended and seized the device and after making further checks in the area, identified and seized two identical devices attached to Barclays ATMs in Ambleside and Windermere. Police patrols were alerted and other ATMs across South Lakeland were checked but no others have been found.

Sergeant Ken Jewell said: “We have seized three devices this morning that were attached to ATMs overnight. We are investigating and are linking the overnight incidents with the ATM tampering that was reported to us earlier this week.
“It seems that the devices seized this morning are attached to machines that have flat ‘faces’. The device is small, plastic and silver coloured which blends in well with the silver colour of the machine. Offenders attach this to the cash dispensing chute which stops the money from being given to the customer after they request it. After the customer walks away from it, assuming there’s an error, the thief/thieves returns and retrieves the device that has the cash attached to it.
“We are urging people in the area to be extra cautious and vigilant in the lead up to Christmas. Before using a cash machine, check it for anything that looks suspicious or out of the ordinary around the card reader and the cash dispenser.
“If it looks suspicious, don’t use it. Contact Cumbria Police on 0845 33 00 247 and your bank as soon as possible - there will be a telephone number on the cash machine for you to phone.
“People should also make every effort to hide their pin numbers when using a cash machine and be aware of anyone who may be watching them or looking over their shoulder. Wherever possible, use a cash machine which is inside a bank or building society.”

Police are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone who may have information about suspicious activity around these ATMs overnight or over the last few days.

In particular, they are keen to speak to a man who is described as white, slim, in his late 20s with an eastern European accent who was seen in the area around the time that the offences were reported on 4th and 5th December. He was wearing tight khaki green trousers and red and white Adidas trainers with the laces undone and shoe tongue hanging out.

Anyone with information is urged to call a member of the South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 33 00 247. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Barrow woman sentenced to 5 years for knife assault

2011-12-07T10:54:00.001Z

A Barrow woman was sentenced to five years and four months in prison this week for attacking a man she knew with a knife.

Vctoria Tucker

On 1 December 2011, 25 year old Victoria Tucker, of Chester Place, Barrow in Furness appeared at Preston Crown Court where she was told she would serve a minimum of two years eight months after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm. She had served four months on remand at Styal Prison before sentencing.

Her court appearance follows an incident that occurred on the evening of 7th August 2011 when Tucker was in a house on Low White Close, Barrow with her victim, a 34 year old Barrow man.

After a heated argument, Tucker punched her victim in the face and continued to punch and kick him after he fell to the floor. She then grabbed a knife and repeatedly slashed the victim on his face, back and arms causing lacerations - four of which were deep and required stitches and hospital treatment.

DC Sarah McArthur of Barrow CID said: “Tucker carried out a violent and unprovoked attack against a man she knew.
“After kicking and punching him, she then used a weapon to seriously injure and scar him. It is incredibly lucky that he didn’t suffer any more serious injuries.
“Violence won’t be tolerated on our streets - especially ones that involve a weapon. This sort of incident is rare in Cumbria and police officers do everything they can to bring violent offenders like Tucker to justice.
“I would like to thank the people that assisted us with the investigation and helped us bring this violent woman to justice.”

Festive shoppers urged to be vigilant after ATMs interfered with in South Lakes

2011-12-06T14:38:00.001Z

Police are appealing for Christmas shoppers to be vigilant after receiving reports that three ATM cash machines in the Ambleside and Windermere area may have been targeted by criminals over the last two days.

Sometime during 4th and 5th December, police believe offender(s) have interfered with the ATMs at the Co-op in Bowness, Barclays in Ambleside and Barclays in Windermere by attaching devices to the cash dispenser, preventing cash from being dispensed to the user.

Police believe that a device was attached to the cash dispensing chute which means that the customer requests cash but it fails to come out of the machine. After the customer walks away from it, assuming there’s an error with the machine, the thief/thieves returns and retrieves the device that contains the customers’ cash.

Sergeant Ken Jewell said: “We are investigating after receiving calls from concerned members of the public who believed that ATMs in the area had been interfered with.
“We are urging people in the area to be extra cautious and vigilant in the lead up to Christmas when obtaining money from a cash machine. Before using the machine, check it for anything that looks suspicious around the card reader and the cash dispenser. In the most recent incidents, we are informed by customers that the machine had a small piece of tape attached to the cash dispenser slot.
“If it looks suspicious, don’t use it. Contact Cumbria Police on 0845 33 00 247 and your bank as soon as possible - there will be a telephone number on the cash machine for you to phone.
“People should also make every effort to hide their pin numbers when using a cash machine and be aware of anyone who may be watching them or looking over their shoulder. Wherever possible, use a cash machine which is inside a bank or building society.”

Police are keen to speak to any witnesses or anyone who may have information about suspicious activity around these ATMs over the last few days.

In particular, they are keen to speak to a man who is described as white, slim, in his late 20s with an eastern European accent who was seen in the area around the time that the offences were reported. He was wearing tight khaki green trousers and red and white Adidas trainers with the laces undone and shoe tongue hanging out.

Anyone with information is urged to call a member of the South Lakes Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 33 00 247. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Who pays the price....What will YOU buy a teenager this Christmas?

2011-12-05T18:14:00.001Z

Good evening all

We have been busy recently filming and producing a series of 4 video clips...we obviously have not done this alone you will be glad to hear!! We were ablely assisted (or rather it was done by) Workshop Media.

We now have four video clips and we want EVERYONE to watch them!

"Why?" I hear you ask......

Well....the clips look at the consequences of buying teenagers alcohol. As parents and adults we are perhaps all tempted from time to time to buy our teenagers (children) a few drinks for them to take to a party or gathering of friends.

When young people are attended to for emergency treatment by the ambulance service, found alone on local playing fields by the police, seen at our local hospital unable to even speak their own name, we ask them (once they are in a fit state to answer) where they got the alcohol from that got them in such a mess. They most often tell us that they got it from a parent or well meaning adult. We, as parents, think that if we just buy them a small bottle of spirits for them to share with their friends they won't be left out and we will be controlling how much they drink. What we forget is that several other parents of the friend group do the same and before we know it our teenagers have a cocktail of spirits big enough to knock out an elephant for a week!!

We've all been young, we all like to have a good time...and we want the next generation to as well....but before you give alcohol to a teenager this Christmas, please watch these clips......

Who Pays The Price? "The One With The Sex"

Who Pays The Price? "The One With The Violence"

Who Pays the Price? "The One With The Alcohol Poisoning"

Who Pays The Price? "The One With The Death"

If you would like any more information or if you have any questions then please feel free to get in touch and we would love you to share the videos with all your friends.
With thanks to the many people and organisations who helped us out with the video...including The Barrow Arms, BAE Systems, Hillfoot Garden Centre, Love it Studios, all the actors and actresses, the matrons, the very nice make-up lady, Cumbria Constabulary, Northwest Ambulance Service, ASDA for the refreshments, Simone Bradbury, (those that I have forgotten...feel free to remind me!) and of course, Workshop Media.

See you all soon and have a lovely Christmas, Rebecca

Police release e-fit of offender one month after Barrow assault

2011-12-05T16:59:00.001Z

One month after a local man was assaulted in Barrow, detectives have released an e-fit of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

At approximately 10.30pm on Sunday 6th November, a 22 year old Barrow man was assaulted outside Adelphi Court in Barrow as he was walking home from a night out in the town centre.

The victim was approached by a male who assaulted him with what police believe to be a knife, leaving him with three superficial wounds to his back and leg. The victim attended Furness General Hospital for treatment but was not kept in overnight.

Four weeks after the investigation was initially launched, detectives have got a more detailed description of the offender and have created an e-fit in the hope that the image encourages members of the community to come forward with information.

DC Wayne Dixon from Barrow CID is investigating. He said: “After making extensive local enquiries and speaking with the victim, we now have a full description of a man that we would like to trace in connection with this assault.
“The offender is described as white, in his early 20s, slim, with short cropped brown hair, wearing a grey hoodie and had a distinctive shaved line in his left eyebrow.
“Fortunately the victim in this case was not seriously injured.
“We are appealing for everybody to take a good look at the image and contact us immediately if you think you know who this could be.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Barrow CID on 0845 33 00 247 or provide information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Tribute to man who died in road traffic collision on the A590

2011-12-01T12:07:00.001Z

The wife of Geoff Davis who tragically died in the road traffic collision on Tuesday 29th November 2011 on the A590, has paid tribute to a "passionate man" who was her best friend.

Geoff Davies

Heather Davis, Geoff's wife said: "Geoff was a passionate man; he loved the Lord Jesus, adored his family and was a committed cyclist and member of the Lakes Gospel choir. He was a devoted husband of 30 years and my best friend. He leaves behind his beloved children and grandchild. We will treasure every memory of him."

At 7am on Tuesday 29th November, emergency services were called to the A590 at the junction with the A6 at Levens, following a road traffic collision. Mr Geoffrey Davis, known as Geoff, aged 51 from Windermere Road, Kendal, was conveyed to Royal Lancaster Infirmary but sadly died from his injuries.

Furness College help out with our alcohol campaign

2011-12-01T10:14:00.001Z

Furness College help out with our campaign

2011-11-30T15:03:00.001Z

Alcohol has been noted as a key concern for all public services across the borough of Barrow-in-Furness. Collectively we have been working to address this and improve the lives of our community.

This Christmas our focus has been to raise awareness of pre-loading and the associated harms. As part of this we asked Furness College students to listen to a presentation about pre-loading and then generate some designs we could use on posters and beer mats to deliver our message.

The above presentation are the designs the students have produced for us. We would like to offer our sincere thanks for their contribution to this campaign and for their designs and time.

Police are appealing for information after a £2,000 bike was stolen in Barrow

2011-11-29T12:02:00.001Z

The theft has occurred between Thursday 24th November and Sunday 27th November 2011 after offender(s) entered the garden of a property on Holcroft Hill by climbing over the rear wall from the back alley between Provincial Street and Holcroft Hill. They then removed the padlock to the garage, possibly by cutting it off, before stealing the bike.

Police believe they returned on a second occasion sometime on Saturday night (26th) and stole a bicycle wheel, tyres and a jigsaw tool.

PC Rosie Greenall is investigating. She said: “The bike is custom made and is worth in the region of £2000. It is fairly distinctive, a Commencal Meta 5.5 lime green mountain bike with a camouflage coloured seat and white grips.
“If anyone witnessed anything suspicious in this area over the weekend, or if you believe you have seen a bike matching this description or any of the other stolen items, please contact me in Barrow police station on 0845 33 00 247.”

This bike is similar to the one stolen

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

Police appeal to trace potential victim of crime after receiving anonymous information

2011-11-29T09:06:00.001Z

Police in Ulverston are appealing for a potential victim of crime to come forward after officers receiving an anonymous report that an elderly man was a victim of a crime in the last few weeks.

On Thursday 24 November, a member of the public who did not provide her name or contact details, came into Ulverston police station and reported that an elderly friend of hers from Ulverston had money stolen while walking back to his car after using a cash machine on Lloyds TSB bank on Market Street, Ulverston. It is believed to have happened approximately 2-3 weeks ago.

Police are appealing for the victim to come forward and contact his local officers so that they can ensure he is ok and establish whether a crime has taken place.

Sergeant Martin Harbridge said: “This is an unusual incident to investigate because we have not received an official complaint and we have not had any contact with the gentleman who may have been a victim of a crime. However, we are concerned in case the report is true and somebody has had cash stolen yet has not reported this to police. It is not too late and we would urge anyone with information about this incident to contact us.
“The information we received was that an elderly man had some cash stolen after withdrawing money from the cash point on Market Street at some point during the day around 2-3 weeks ago.
“It is also thought that a green coloured car, with two male occupants, was present in the area at the time and may be connected to the incident.
“It is very important that we speak to either the victim, the member of the public who reported this information to us yesterday, or any witnesses who may have seen something suspicious on Market Street so that we can establish what has happened.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Debbie Murray or any officer at Ulverston police on 0845 33 00 247.

Information can also be passed to police anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Over 16 years behind bars for three North West drug dealers

2011-11-28T16:41:00.001Z

THREE men have been jailed for a total of 16 years and two months for conspiring to supply class A, class B and class C drugs across the North West.

Lee Ormandy (left), 39, of Chapel Lane, New Longton, Lancashire was jailed for nine years and four months. He had earlier pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A and class C drugs.

Richard Painter (right), 32, of St Davids Road, Preston, Lancashire, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class A drugs and was jailed for five years and ten months.

Michael McCue, (left) 21, of Higher Croft, Penwortham, Lancashire, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply class C drugs and was given a one year prison sentence.

All three were arrested in February 2011 following a series of raids in Lancashire, Merseyside, Cumbria and North Wales.

They were given the prison sentences at Preston Crown Court today (Monday 28 November) following an investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (TITAN).

Det Insp Andy Black from the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (TITAN) said: “These individuals had an adverse affect on the communities of Lancashire and Cumbria through their supply of drugs.
“We are committed to tackling organised crime gangs and cracking down on illegal drugs supply and we will do all we can to put those involved behind bars.
“We will continue to listen to the concerns of local residents and act upon them. Information from the public is vital for us to take action against suspected criminals and I would urge residents to work with us by telling us about any suspicious activity.”

The sentencing is the culmination of an investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (TITAN), which brings together the six regional police forces to create a specialist task force that targets serious organised crime across county borders.

As part of the investigation half a kilogram of cocaine, with a street value of £200,000, was seized. One kilogram of amphetamine with a street value £3,000 was also seized along with 8,700 benzylpiperazine tablets with a street value of £24,000 and £2,400 worth of temazepam.

A further ten men are due to be sentenced on Tuesday 29 November and Monday 5 December as part of the investigation.

Anyone with information about drugs in their community can contact their local police - 0845 33 00 247 -or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Ulverston road closures in place for Dickensian festival goers

2011-11-25T13:32:00.001Z

The annual Ulverston Christmas Dickensian Festival will be taking place this coming weekend, 26th and 27th November.

The event will see the town enjoy Christmas market stalls, street entertainment and a parade on Saturday.

In order to allow local people and visitors to enjoy the event safely, police are appealing for motorists to park away from the town centre as of 3pm on Friday night. Police will be placing ‘No Waiting’ cones in specific areas to facilitate a safe parade and shopping area.

The road closure is in effect on Saturday and Sunday from 9am till 5.30 each day on Market Street, Market place, New Market Street, Union Street, Theatre Street, Upper Brook street, Cross Street and Brogden street on the town side. The parking restrictions will apply from 3pm on Friday and they will be lifted by 5.30 on Sunday.

Ulverston Police are asking for residents support so that they are able to clear the town centre of vehicles effectively. Sgt Rupert Johnston of Ulverston Police said: “This is a very popular and well attended event that local people and visitors enjoy year upon year.
“Many thousands of visitors are expected in the town this weekend so if you are planning on attending, consider transport options due to the road closures and parking restrictions that will be in place for your safety. We are urging people to make use of a park and ride bus running from the Auction Mart on North Lonsdale Road which has been organised by the Festival committee.
“There will be a certain amount of disruption to the town centre but all the local shops and amenities will be open as usual. We hope that we will see the same levels of cooperation from local residents and visitors as we’ve had in previous years to make this a successful event for everyone.”

Police protect security vans in Cumbria

2011-11-25T12:24:00.001Z

Police in Cumbria have stepped up patrols around cash-in-transit deliveries in the run up to Christmas.

The number and value of cash deliveries by security vans rises during the Christmas period, so police have increased patrols along key delivery routes and drop off points to prevent them being targeted by offenders. This operation started on Monday 7th November.

Neighbourhood police officers have been on patrol when deliverers are being made, along with roads policing officers, who are providing a more visible presence by following security vans on parts of their journey around the county.

Police will also work with CCTV operators to identify suspicious activity and provide advice and guidance to the business community to help prevent them from becoming victims of crime.

Chief Inspector Kevin Greenhow, who is coordinating the operation to protect cash-in-transit deliveries, said: “Christmas is fast approaching and this is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for cash-in-transit robberies in the UK. This type of crime is very rare in Cumbria, with only three incidents in the last three year, and we want it to stay that way.
“We are determined to keep our communities safer by targeting, deterring and disrupting criminals who carry out attacks on cash deliveries at commercial and financial premises.
“The key to preventing these crimes is to show offenders that we are watching them and that if they target deliveries in Cumbria they will be caught.
“Our officers will be keeping a close eye on cash deliveries and we would urge business owners and members of the community to report suspicious activity to police. These attacks are not victimless, many crew members who have been involved in an attack have suffered physical and psychological effects.
“If you think a security van is being followed, contact us immediately, and if you spot suspicious activity around a delivery point, let us know. It could be offenders staking out a future target, or it could be a crime in action.
“If you spot suspicious activity call us on 0845 33 00 247, or if you think a crime is in action call 999.”

The operation to support cash-in-transit deliveries forms part of a regional campaign across six police forces in the North of England, which is codenamed Operation Safercash.

Police prepare for proposed strike action

2011-11-24T15:37:00.001Z

Unison and other union members propose to go on strike on 30 November 2011 in reaction to Government plans to change public sector pensions.

Police officers cannot go on strike so the Industrial Action will not affect Cumbria Constabulary’s response to emergencies in the county on 30 November 2011.

The Industrial Action will, however, affect police staff members. Like other public sector organisations, the Constabulary anticipates that the day of action will result in a number of its employees not being in the workplace.

Whilst Cumbria Constabulary is committed to supporting the rights of its staff whether they choose to take industrial action or come into work, the force will ensure that communities continue to receive a high quality emergency service.

Contingency plans are in place and suitably trained officers and staff will assist in business critical departments like the communications centre to ensure that the Constabulary can continue to deal with emergency ‘999’ calls from the public.

The Constabulary will prioritise emergency calls during the 24 hour period so would appeal to members of the public who want to contact police about a non-emergency, to wait until the following day if possible before calling police.

Cumbria Constabulary may not have suitable resources to respond to all non-emergencies on 30 November 2011 so an automated message notifying callers of a potential delay in attending non-emergencies will be played on the non-emergency phone line (0845 33 00 247). Callers will be invited to leave a message or ring back at a later time. Non-emergencies will be dealt with as soon as possible after the 24 hour strike.

Front counters in the following principle police stations will remain open on Wednesday 30 November between 9am and 5pm on 30 November 2011:
- Durranhill, Carlisle
- Workington
- Kendal
- Barrow

Front counters in the remaining police stations across the county will be closed to the public for the 24 hour period and will reopen as normal on Thursday 1 December.

Detectives in Penrith appeal for witnesses to burglaries in Alston

2011-11-24T15:30:00.001Z

Detectives in Penrith are investigating a number of burglaries to properties in the area of Alston town between 9:00 pm on the 21st November and 8:00 am on the 22nd November 2011.

At approximately 4:00 am on the morning of Tuesday 22nd November 2011 an intruder was disturbed in a house at The Firs, Alston. The intruder is believed to have entered through an insecure door. Nothing was stolen during the incident and they made off over waste ground at the rear of the house.

There was a further burglary reported at a house on Garrigill Road where a distinctive black and gold coloured "Nico" purse was stolen containing £20 cash and £120 in high street money vouchers, again the intruder entered the property through an insecure door.

The third reported burglary occurred at a house on Front Street, Alston. During the incident a set of keys were stolen. A Skoda Fabia, registration number KR53 WMU was then stolen from outside the property. The vehicle left in an unknown direction and has not yet been found.

Detective Constable Chris Hind said: "We would like to remind people to be conscious of their home security. Be vigilant when going to bed, people remember to lock their doors when going out but can sometimes be complacent when at home. Always check your property is locked when going to bed, if in doubt, check.
"We would like to speak to anyone who witnesses any suspicious behaviour in the area, these people may have been scoping the area prior to the offences. Also if you have been subject to a similar incident, please do get in contact. If you have seen a vehicle with the registration number mentioned, please contact us. Any information, no matter how small could be relevant and important to the case."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC 1880 Chris Hind at Penrith CID on 0845 33 00 247.

You can also give information to the police ANONYMOUSLY by ringing the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111

Man arrested in connection with Barrow robbery

2011-11-24T15:11:00.001Z

Detectives in Barrow have arrested a man in connection with a robbery and disturbance that occurred in the town earlier this week.

On Monday 21st November 2011 at around 10pm police attended a disturbance on Victoria Road in Barrow in Furness, close to the junction of Harrogate Street.

A man smashed a window at a nearby flat and, when a local resident opened his front door, entered the property and threatened the 43 year old male occupant with a knife. He made off with his victim’s mobile phone. The victim suffered slight injuries to his hands during the incident but he did not require hospital treatment.

A 41 year old man from Stoke has been arrested on suspicion of robbery. He has been interviewed by detectives and released on bail pending further enquiries until January 2012.

DC Sarah McArthur said: “An investigation is ongoing and after our initial enquiries and evidence was gathered, a man was arrested.
“This sort of disturbance is unusual and we need the help of the local community to get a clear idea of what happened on Monday night. If you witnessed the incident or if you think you have information that can help us, please contact Barrow CID on 0845 33 00 247.”

You can pass information anonymously to police via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

2011-11-23T16:15:00.001Z

FRANK provides a friendly, confidential and non-judgemental service to anyone wanting help, information or advice about drugs. FRANK is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The service is free, and operated by fully trained advisers.

FRANK aims to give young people the skills and confidence they need to reject drugs and offer parents the information they need to talk to about drugs with their children. FRANK aims to reduce the demand for drugs by providing people with the information they need to make an informed decision about drugs. FRANK provides:

information on the risks of drugs, in order to maintain non-use or prevent escalation of use
advice to build resistance skills, to deal with peer pressure and avoid risky situations; and advice for parents, friends and family who are concerned about someone else’s drug use
help to assist cessation of use – treatment advice, online treatment, signposts to local treatment providers, and where appropriate direct referrals to treatment

FRANK is the national drugs information and advice service to young people.

Bag, pen and booklet modelled by two of Barrow's friendly wardens

If you fancy a FRANK pen or draw string bag, or a 'Drugs. Does your child know more than you' leaflet, then call into our office on Dalton Road - Neighbourhood Management, 242-244 Dalton Road - opposite Connexions. They are FREE and available whilst stocks last.

Ulverston man injured in shed fire

2011-11-23T15:42:00.001Z

Police were called by the fire service at 11:24 am this morning (23 November) to an incident at Weston Avenue in Ulverston where a man had been injured in a shed fire.

A man, aged 24, had serious burns and was air lifted to Preston Royal Infirmary, were he is receiving treatment.

Police and Fire Investigation officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident.

Police & Trading Standards issue cold callers warning to Walney residents

2011-11-18T15:07:00.001Z

Police and Trading Standards are issuing a warning to cold callers after receiving complaints from elderly residents on Walney Island, Barrow yesterday.

Trading Standards contacted police after they were called by an 85 year old local woman on the morning of Thursday 17 November who had opened her door to a group of male cold callers from a firm based in Coventry. The males informed her she needed maintenance work completed on her property and after feeling pressured, agreed to their quotation on her doorstep. She then contacted Trading Standards.

Police officers attended and spoke to a group of young men who then left the area. Police enquiries are continuing and officers and Trading Standards have been speaking to local residents and are issuing leaflets with advice on what to do when confronted with cold callers.

PC Callum Lennox who is based in Walney said: “As we were called to the area and began to make local enquiries, it became clear that around six elderly women had been approached in their homes by cold callers who informed them that their homes needed unnecessary repair work done.
“Our enquiries so far have established that the cold callers had been operating around Walney between 10th and 17th November, and had handed out quotations on doorsteps that have been overpriced. On one occasion, it is believed that a quotation was up to eight times what someone would normally be expected to pay.
“We are working with Trading Standards and police officers will be handing out leaflets in the area and making local enquiries but we are urging local residents to be vigilant and look out for their neighbours.”

Angela Jones, Cumbria County Council's Trading Standards Service Manager, said: “It is sometimes difficult for people to have the confidence to refuse overpriced on-the-spot repairs, so residents should check the identity of any doorstep seller by calling the company direct before letting them into the house or even better - requesting an appointment in writing.
"While it is not illegal for traders to canvas for work in this manner, rogue doorstep trading is an ongoing problem locally as well as nationally. Last year Cumbria Trading Standards received 250 complaints about uninvited doorstep sellers. We want communities to make a stand against doorstep selling and have the necessary support and help to be able to turn away cold callers. The lady who contacted Trading Standards did exactly the right thing. She didn’t invite them into her home and contacted Trading Standards immediately.”

Police advise that people should always be wary of doorstep ‘special offers’ or ‘one-day-only’ deals and if work does need to be completed on your property, shop around for the best price and ensure it is by a trader who is recommended by a trusted friend, neighbour or family member.

PC Lennox continued: “I would encourage people to get into a routine of answering their doors safely. If you are not expecting a visitor and someone knocks at your door, put the chain on before you open the door, look through a spy hole or door window or even open a nearby window and speak to the person through that. By getting into a routine of doing this to every unexpected caller it prevents you from being caught off guard by cold callers or rogue traders. It is your doorstep and your decision – if your not 100 per cent sure of who you are dealing with and the deal they are offering - have the confidence to say no.”

For consumer advice or to report a scam, contact Trading Standards via Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of fraud can contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or Textphone 0300 123 2050. Action Fraud provides a single point of contact for members of the public to report fraud and gain vital crime prevention advice.

Police in Kendal seize up to £7,000 worth of Cannabis

2011-11-18T15:03:00.001Z

On Thursday 17th November Police executed a search warrant under the Misuse of Drugs Act at an address in Endmoor, Kendal. Officers seized a quantity of Cannabis with an estimated value between £6,000 and £7,000.

A 34 year old man from Kendal was arrested on suspicion of cultivation and possession of Cannabis with intent to supply and was released on bail until 9 January 2012, while enquiries continue.

Sergeant Paul Mellard, from Kendal Police, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to reassure the community that we will take action against those who insist on bringing drugs into our community. Information which we receive from the public is vital in combating this criminal activity.

Anyone with information about illegal drug use or supply in their community is urged to contact Cumbria police on 0845 33 00 247 or pass on details anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Winter safety advice for your home from Cumbria Constabulary

2011-11-02T11:18:00.001Z

Bonfire message from Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service

2011-10-31T16:21:00.002Z

In the month leading up to November 5th and for a week or so after, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service usually attend over 400 bonfire type incidents at a cost to taxpayers in excess of £250,000.

In addition to the financial cost, there are more serious implications involved in having to commit fire crews to deal with bonfire incidents. The main implication is that a fire crew can only be in one place at a time and, once committed, crews will be unavailable to attend to other potentially more serious and possibly life threatening incidents such as house fires or serious road traffic accidents.

Should Fire Engines in a town or village all be unavailable, the Fire Service control room will call upon the nearest alternative fire engine to deal with an incident. This could result in slower response times and in the most extreme cases lead to unnecessary loss of life! An emergency call could be a call made by a member of your family!

The public can help us to reduce this type of incident by following a few simple rules:
: Don’t build bonfires until a few days before bonfire night.
: Make sure that bonfires are a minimum of 15 metres away from any buildings, trees, fences, car parking areas, and overhead cables.
: Don’t build bonfires any higher than 3 metres.
:Build on a clear well mown space not on tarmac or concrete and only with the permission of the land owner.
:Don’t put dangerous objects onto bonfires , ie gas canisters, aerosols, tyres, plastics etc.
:Don’t light fires where the smoke might drift across a road or into neighbouring property.
:Kids, don’t climb inside bonfires.

Bonfires that do not comply with these guidelines can and will be removed , anyone interfering with the removal of such bonfires may be prosecuted.

Please help us to reduce the number of unwanted fire calls to bonfires, remember, a fire engine can’t be in two places at once and enjoy bonfire night safely.

Police issue tips to keep motorists safe on Cumbrian roads this winter

2011-10-31T14:57:00.001Z

Police and the Highways Agency are urging motorists to take care on Cumbria’s roads as wintery weather begins to set in across the county.

As the nights draw in and winter sets in, the worsening weather will inevitably lead to periods of treacherous road conditions over the coming months, so Cumbrian police officers and the Highways Agency today issued road safety advice urging drivers to take extra care, maintain their vehicles and drive to the conditions.

Chief Inspector Kevin Greenhow, head of Cumbria Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit, said: ”As temperatures drop and the winter weather sets in it is even more important to take care on Cumbria’s roads.
“Safe winter motoring always starts with the driver. My officers have attended too many crashes which could have been prevented if drivers had planned ahead, maintained their vehicle properly and adapted their driving style and speed according to the road conditions. We want drivers to plan ahead and take note of some simple steps they can take to help minimise the risks this winter.”

Top tips for safe winter driving
Plan your journey in advance:
• Check local and national weather forecasts and tune into local radio stations to check on road conditions and closures, or visit the Traffic Information page at www.cumbria.police.uk for live updates on road closures and delays.
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive and ensure you have a charged mobile phone with you
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade
• Clear your windows and mirrors fully before you set off and carry a screen scraper and de-icer

If you have an accident, break-down or become stuck in bad weather conditions:
• Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call
• On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone because the emergency services and breakdown recovery services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder
• If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you

Vehicle maintenance:
• Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow
• Keep your battery fully charged
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer
• Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order
• Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure. Consider changing to high performance winter tyres.

Drive according to weather conditions:
• Allow extra time and distance to brake as it can take ten times longer to stop in wet or icy conditions
• Adapt your driving behaviour. Keep in mind the decreased visibility and changing road conditions.
• Slow down and avoid sudden or jerky movements are all vital to safe winter driving
• When driving on ice or snow use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Be wary of satellite navigation systems as they tend to direct you over high rural roads that are likely to be closed or particularly hazardous in winter
• Do not assume that pedestrians have seen you. They may be elderly, young or not be able to hear you
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads if the water seems too deep
• Drive slowly through water in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling
• Test your brakes when you have driven through a flood before you drive again at normal speed

Prepare a winter driving emergency kit to keep in your vehicle, which should include:
• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch and spare batteries – or a wind-up torch
• Warm clothes and blankets - for you and all passengers
• Boots
• First aid kit
• Jump leads
• A shovel
• Road atlas
• Sunglasses (the glare off snow can be dazzling)

If you would like to speak to an officer for further advice on how to stay safe on the county’s roads please contact Cumbria Roads Policing Unit on 0845 33 00 247. In an emergency always call 999.

For further information about highways and safe motoring visit www.highways.gov.uk/winter

Officers from Cumbria Constabulary nominated in Police Review Gala Awards

2011-10-31T14:12:00.001Z

Three officers from Cumbria Constabulary have been nominated for awards in recognition for their hard work and dedication shown to improving their local community.

The annual Jane’s Police Review Gala Awards have established themselves as the most prestigious event for recognising and rewarding excellence in community policing in the UK.

PC Andy Minnion has been nominated for Community Police Officer of the year.
He is renowned for his work on youth disorder and antisocial behaviour when he started as neighbourhood officer, in Carlisle, four years ago. In 2009, problems in the local area started to spiral out of control.
PC Minnion identified the youth who were responsible for the majority of the problems, installed CCTV around the main trouble spots and gained enough evidence to get the youths to sign antisocial behaviour contracts. Combined with high-visibility foot patrols, this action led to a 33% reduction in crime in the area over six months.

Temporary Inspector Mike Kelly said: “PC Minnion is a highly motivated, diligent officer conducting his duties without any supervision. He has a calm demeanour, and is unflustered even when faced with a large workload and very difficult situations. His dedication to community policing and solving local problems, sets the standard and inspires others to follow, he truly deserves this award.”

Police Community Support Officer Jonathan Mann has been nominated for Police Community Support Officer of the year.
He has worked tirelessly with local organisations for the good of the community, including arranging activities for children in the area, a rugby training day, a fishing scheme and football events. He has set up a number community schemes, including junior PCSO and allotment watch, both of which aimed to reduce the number of antisocial behaviour incidents in the Whitehaven area.
PCSO Mann also works with elderly residents in the Whitehaven area, organising family fun days to promote greater understanding between elderly and younger residents in the area.

Inspector Craig Lory said: “It is great that Jonathan has been nominated for all of the hard work he has done for the people of Whitehaven. With his energy and enthusiasm he has initiated and run numerous projects to improve the local area and build relations with the community.”

PC Cheryl Martin has been nominated for Student Police Officer of the Year.
PC Martin is a dedicated officer who strives to achieve the best outcome in any situation. She was able to persuade a mother to give a statement against her 17 year old son who had breached his bail by intimidating young women and asking them for sex.
On a separate occasion, PC Martin took on a group of men fighting in a busy nightclub area, chasing down an offender who had been repeatedly punching another man and arresting him in a deserted car parl.

Sergeant Mike James said: “Cheryl’s self motivated and self-effacing approach has provided a strong team member for colleagues and supervisors alike and a high level of service to people calling the police for help.”

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on Thursday 4 November in London.

At Barrow CDRP, we wish them all the best of luck.

Loan shark who befriended victims sentenced and ordered to pay up

2011-10-26T10:33:00.003+01:00

A Hertfordshire loan shark has been sentenced to nine months in prison suspended for two years, plus a four month curfew after he admitting running an illegal money lending business and possessing criminal property.

£34,000 was also confiscated from Maurice Saggers, 53 from the Waltham Cross area of Hertfordshire.

Saggers was arrested last year following an investigation by the England Illegal Money Lending Team, working in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council, and Hertfordshire Police. He appeared at St Albans Crown Court on Friday 21st October after entering a guilty plea to two offences just before he was about to stand trial in September.

As a result of information received from Hertfordshire Police the Team executed a warrant at Saggers’ home, in Sexton Close, Cheshunt. They seized and removed a number of documents; including documentation which recorded 330 loans given by Saggers on which repayments were due totalling over £250,000.

Loan books seized showed illegal debts had been dealt out to around 35 people. Mr Simon Mortimer, prosecuting, told the court that it was impossible to properly estimate the full extent of his activity as many loan books were held by his customers who were unknown to the prosecution. Those seized however showed that his was a substantial business; the prosecution had evidence of receipts over £190,000. He was charging interest between 196% and 353%.

Saggers, who worked previously for a legitimate loans company, ran his illegal business over a number of years. He lent money to close friends but added high interest to the loans.

He never gave paperwork to the ‘customers’ of his illegal business, so they never knew precisely what they owed.

One victim who took out a loan for £500 paid back £900 with interest. She then took out a further loan for £300, agreeing to pay back £15 a week. Saggers took the first payment immediately so she only received £285. On this loan she paid back £580.

Saggers resigned from a legitimate loan company in 2005, where he worked as a self employed collector. Since then he has been operating illegally.

The court heard how Saggers befriended his victims, for example by, buying them chocolates at Christmas. Yet this was a façade as he was targeting vulnerable people, such as those with poor credit history who would struggle to access mainstream credit.

The Court made an order that cash in bank accounts operated by Saggers and held as premium bonds in the sum of £34,323 be confiscated.

Tony Quigley Head of the England Illegal Money Lending Team said “Loan sharks are not a community service. Greed motivates them to prey on vulnerable people. Their victims are all too often left penniless and living on the breadline. We have seen loan sharks appear friendly at first then turn to become threatening and violent, and victims who have had their lives destroyed by these menaces

We would urge people never to get involved with illegal lenders and anyone with any information relating to loan sharking activity to call the hotline in confidence on 0300 555 2222”

Richard Thake, Executive Member for Community Safety at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "Whatever your circumstances, don't be tempted to go to a loan shark - it will only end up costing you more money and you are likely to encounter some very unpleasant people. If you do find yourself in financial difficulties speak to a credit union or a Citizens’ Advice bureau before doing anything else.
"If you have borrowed money from an unlicensed money-lender, you haven't broken the law - they have. You are under no legal obligation to repay the debt. A debt 'owed' to an illegal lender is not legally enforceable, which is why loan sharks often resort to violence and intimidation."

Detective Inspector Ian Butler from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Economic Crime Unit said: “This is an excellent piece of partnership working to target this type of crime.
“Hertfordshire Constabulary is resolute about eradicating loans sharks from the communities we serve.
“These people prey on the most vulnerable in society, often because they are saddled with big debts already
“I would encourage anyone who is aware of loan-sharking in Hertfordshire, be they a victim or just someone who holds information on this illegal activity, to contact us or the national hotline and help us crack down on these criminals.”

Nationally the Illegal Money Lending Team’s have secured over 190 prosecutions for illegal money lending and related activity, leading to 117 years worth of custodial sentences. They have written off almost £40 million worth of illegal debt and helped over 16,000 victims.

To report a loan shark:

Call the 24/7 confidential hotline 0300 555 2222
Text ‘loan shark + your message’ to 60003
E-mail reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk
Message us on Facebook www.facebook.com/stoploansharksproject
Log-on to www.direct.gov.uk/stoploansharks

Cumbrian frauds to be investigated by expert national reporting centre

2011-10-25T13:06:00.000+01:00

Victims of fraud in Cumbria will now benefit from having national experts from Action Fraud investigate their crimes.

From 1 November 2011, Cumbria Constabulary will refer victims of fraud to Action Fraud- a national reporting centre with a team of experts who identify nationwide and international scams in a bid to track down criminals.

Cumbria Constabulary is the first police force in the North West to roll out this pilot in a bid to provide local communities with the best possible chance of solving their crimes. Selected forces from other regions in the UK are also taking part to ensure that the national roll out is staged and seamless for victims.

Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Hyde said: “We have been working with Action Fraud for some time now and since its launch, it has gone from strength to strength.
“In that time, many people in Cumbria have been choosing to report their frauds to Action Fraud direct without contacting police, but at the start of next month all fraud victims will benefit from Action Fraud’s service. From November 1 2011, Cumbria Constabulary will only deal with frauds where we suspect the offender is operating from within the county or where a victim is deemed vulnerable and needs local support. All other victims that contact police will be asked to contact Action Fraud direct – the team there will investigate thoroughly and provide an enhanced service.”

As a national centre of excellence run by the National Fraud Authority, the Action Fraud team collects information from around the country and can often see fraudulent scams travelling from region to region. This national perspective, along with an expert team committed to taking action against fraudsters means that victims of fraud in Cumbria will receive a dedicated service.

DCC Hyde continues: “Thankfully fraud isn’t a common crime in Cumbria but because of its nature, it is particularly difficult to solve. It is a faceless crime where offenders can strike via email, phone or letter so victims rarely come into physical contact with a criminal.
“Action Fraud statistics show that online shopping or auctions along with application and advanced fee frauds such as psychic or loan scams are the most common cons that residents have fallen foul of in Cumbria. These types of fraud often occur across regional and national borders so Action Fraud can use the information provided to build up a comprehensive picture of where criminals are operating and where they are likely to strike next.”

According to the National Fraud Authority, which runs Action Fraud, at least £3.5billion is lost by individuals to fraud every year. However, the actual figure is probably much higher as many victims of fraud never report it.

There are some simple rules everyone can all follow to help protect ourselves against fraud:
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
• If you didn’t enter a lottery…you haven’t won it
• Ask questions - If someone is legitimate they won’t pressurise you or be elusive
• Be very wary about giving your personal information to strangers or providing money up front
• Always check the real company’s details against the ones you have been given, and ring them direct if you are in doubt
• Don’t stay silent. If you’ve been targeted by a fraudster and lost money, contact Action Fraud at http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/ or call 0300 123 2040

For more advice or to report a fraud, visit http://www.actionfraud.org.uk/ or call 0300 123 2040