Helping to beat crime

In the run up to the festive season the local Neighbourhood Policing Team is urging residents to work with the Police and reduce the opportunities for criminals to operate in our area.

Thefts from vehicles continue to be reported, often from vehicles that have been left unlocked, with valuables in them. Please, make sure your car is locked when unattended and do not leave items such as laptops, satnavs, mobile phones and handbags inside. Don't be tempted to 'hide' items — criminals know all the places to look.

Remember, if you lock your car and empty it of property you will significantly reduce the opportunities for crime!

If you are planning on visiting family and leaving your home unattended consider how you can make your premise appear lived in.

• Maybe ask a trusted neighbour to check on it and ask if they can park a vehicle on your driveway. Use a light and possibly a radio on a timer switch — this helps to give the impression that you are at home.
• If you are away when your bin collection day comes around, ask a neighbour to put the bin out and bring it back in for you.
• Don't leave Christmas gifts under the tree, where they can be viewed easily from outside your property and consider where you leave valuables and handbags etc.
• Make sure your house is fully secured (using double locks where they exist) and do not leave keys on view or where they can be 'fished' through letterboxes.

And finally, make sure you report anyone acting suspiciously in your area. Make the call at the time it is happening — this will give officers a great chance of locating them and finding out what they are doing.

• If you can, try to get a description of them, along with details of any vehicle they may be using — especially the registration number.
• Call details through to the 24 hour Police Enquiry Centre on 101, or if a crime is in progress dial on 999.

If you suspect anyone of being involved in crime or handling stolen property phone it through on 101. Alternatively, if you don't want to speak to the Police or give your details you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111

All staff in the Aylesbury Town and Aylesbury Rural neighbourhood policing teams wish you all a peaceful and crime free Christmas and New Year.