MILL CROFT, NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Theft of Stihl Saw

2012-03-03T17:16:00.000Z

On Friday 2nd March around 11am an orange stihl saw labelled with GAP was stolen from Belmont Bridge in Skipton, a young white male was seen running down the canal bank carrying a stihl saw. Any information please contact the police using the 101 number quoting reference 12120033490

Distraction Burglars

2012-02-29T22:22:00.000Z

Dear all,

Crime is still falling in Craven but complacency is letting us down. So, time to take stock and remember some of the basic crime prevention messages. And I have turned them around to freshen them up.

1. Most people in Craven will lock their doors even when they are in their house, this prevents 'walk in' type crimes.

2. Most people in Craven will challenge people on their doorstep to produce ID and will not let them in if they are unexpected or they are suspicious. Almost all people will not do business on their doorstep.

3. The vast majority of people in Craven will lock their cars and remove valuables from sight.

4. A large number of people call the police when they see something suspicious. This allows the Craven RADAR team to follow up on any call regarding a suspicious call. This is very successful as Villains do not want to come to somewhere where they are exposed.

Please spread the messages far and wide we need to work together to chase the last few active criminals from our communities and most criminals do not come to Craven!

Thank you

Geoff Crocker
Inspector

Poaching / Tresspass incidents in the Upper Wharfedale region

2012-01-31T17:47:00.000Z

[Poaching / Tresspass incidents in the Upper Wharfedale region of Craven rural - Sunday 29/01/2012.]

On Sunday 29/01/2012 in the Upper Wharfedale region of Craven rural, we had two incidents of Poaching / Tresspass reported to North Yorkshire Police. The two locations were the Kilnsey and Threshfield areas, which are both near to Grassington. The reportees are both farmers and the incidents happened on their land. The nominals involved in the Poaching / Tresspass incidents are using dogs and ferrets to go rabbitting, and the dogs have also chased sheep. This activity is happening mostly on the weekends. No descriptions could be passed in regards to the nominals involved, as they dispersed quickly when approached, except for that there were groups of males involved in both incidents. Two vehicles have been spotted though, in regards to these incidents. They are a Vauxhall Vectra in Black and a Fiat Punto in Blue. No firearms have been reported in regards to these incidents, that said caution and safety is paramount in regards to dealing with these incidents. Please can all members report any suspicious vehicles and persons on land, as soon as possible and obtain full descriptions if possible. If you have any information please contact North Yorkshire police on 101. Many thanks, PCSO 6245 Battisson.

Metal Thefts

2012-01-21T20:42:00.000Z

Crime wise we have had a fairly steady time with crime matching last year and no significant increases despite last years weather suppressing the overall figures.

One area where we have been relatively untouched until late is the removal of metals and on Friday evening thieves broke into the tip on the A59 and stole 2 skips worth £5000 each and another one from Airedale Business Park also valued the same. This could only be stolen with the use of large plant either a bespoke Skip lorry or a HGV flat trailer. Also we have seen the removal of a broken dishwasher from a back yard. This shows that we still have the thieves driving around looking for opportunities and just at the moment metals are the best way of making quick money and in some cases it is very organised.

Please report anything suspicious to us we have taken 2 of the cops off normal patrol and they just follow up on any suspicious reports. This is paying off in regards to identification of villains and deterring them from coming back.

Regards

Geoff Crocker

Please click image to zoom

2012-01-12T20:28:00.001Z

Please click image to zoom

2012-01-12T20:23:00.002Z

'True grit'

2011-12-17T23:24:00.004Z

The coordinators of the scheme are to purchase a gritting machine to help with access on and off Mill Croft in icy conditions.Ice at the entrance has always been a problem and can take quite awhile to grit by hand shovel.This should help us all.

New national non emergency number 101

2011-12-12T16:09:00.001Z

The national non-emergency number 101 is coming to North Yorkshire Police on 12 December 2011 and will replace the 0845 60 60 24 7 number. While 999 is a well-recognised number used to report emergencies, the 2010 British Crime Survey found that only 54% of the public knew how to contact their local police if they wanted to talk to them about policing, crime or anti-social behaviour.

The introduction of the 101 number will offer the public one easy way to contact their local police force.

The benefits of this new number include:

Calls from landlines and mobile networks cost 15 pence per call, no matter what time of day you call or how long you are on the phone.

101 is available 24 hours a day

When you call 101, you will be able to speak to the force control room via the automated switchboard. When you call 101, we will act on the information we receive. Calling 101 will not result in your call receiving a lower priority than if you had called 999 about a non-emergency issue.

For those callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired, the service can be accessed via textphone on 18001 101

CRIME UPDATE

2011-11-28T22:40:00.002Z

Dear all,

This is Inspector Geoff Crocker from the Craven Rural team. I just want to update you on crime locally and some thoughts as we enter December and the Christmas period.

Firstly Crime is pretty static against last year to date (YTD) and actually down once we take away our Drugs arrests and for 1 incident which accounted for 140 crimes this year in Skipton we have seen an overall drop.

ALL CRIME Prev YTD. YTD Change % Change
Craven Rural 801 731 -70 -9%
Skipton Town 632 699 67 11%
Grand Total 1433 1430 -3 0%

Anti Social Behaviour is also down which may easily be attributed to the awful summer but the housing associations with our support and encouragement have been firm against ASB.

All ASB Prev YTD YTD Change % Change
Craven Rural 808 681 -127 -16%
Skipton Town 657 559 -98 -15%
Grand Total 1465 1240 -225 -15%

The improving figures however mask 2 matters.

The first is the very large increase we saw in Burglary of homes earlier in the year. We have managed to claw back to level following the arrest of 3 people which has given us a 48% detection rate. Dwelling burglary has since been very low.

The second is the continuing increase in Business, outbuilding, garage and shed burglary's which we are trying to combat. Recent examples are Settle Victoria Hall and Bentham Town hall along with the Abbey tea rooms. In each case the offenders are looking for cash on premises please lets get the message out not to leave cash on premises overnight.

Leading into Christmas we normally always see increases in Burglary, Theft from the person and theft from cars.

So the messages are keep those houses locked and fit and use an alarm. Don't leave presents wrapped or unwrapped on show. Keep your wits about you when you are out and about look after your purse and handbag in crowded places. Don't leave purchases on view in your car and report anything suspicious to us straight away.

North Yorkshire Police have a new telephone system so all you have to do now is ask for the officer you want to speak to by name and you may be calling him on his radio otherwise it will direct you to a voicemail where you can leave a message. And from the 12 December we will be using the 101 national number and it will be a matter of asking for North Yorkshire Police.
999 calls are straight into the control room and calls about crimes are also directed to the control room.

Lastly we are trying to get www.neighboursunited.co.uk going in Craven. If you have internet access please have a look. The bigger the community we have using it the better it will be.

That's all for the update.

Burglary in Acre Mews

2011-11-18T16:05:00.001Z

Overnight on the 17th/18th November there was a burglary in Acre Mews in Cowling, access was gained through a patio door at this time it is unsure if anything was taken. Also overnight on 13th/14th a garage in Bradley was broken into again is doesn't appear that anything was taken. Please record serial numbers and photograph property to aid in it's recovery if stolen, check out immobilise.co.uk for further details. Any information on these incidents please ring 0845 6060247 for the attention of PCSO 3578 Perkins

STOLEN

2011-10-24T20:45:00.000+01:00

Last week a large plant pot and shrub was stolen from the doorstep area of one of our Members.

Please keep a watch for anyone taking plants/pots or any other garden furniture or ornaments.

NHW Update

2011-10-01T19:30:00.000+01:00

This month's report for June 2011 to August 2011

shows performance for North Yorkshire Police (NYP) is ranked 1st in England and its Most Similar Forces (MSF). Positive performance where NYP is ranked 1st across categories such as All Crime, Violence against person, Wounding, Robbery, Serious Acquisitive Crime, Theft from a Vehicle and Criminal Damage highlights only some of the achievements NYP has made this year to date. Nationally, NYP sits well below the average crime rate with a rate of 12.559 crimes per 1000 residents, this compares to the national average of 17.008 crimes per 1000 residents.

Detection rates also continue to improve. For the latest 12 month rolling period (end August 2011) NYP's detection rate was above the national average (29.52%) with a rate of 32.99%. When comparing to its MSF, NYP is currently ranked 1st amongst a host of categories including All Crime, Most Serious Violence, Violence Against the Person, Assault with less serious injury, Wounding, Robbery, Theft of a cycle, Theft other than vehicle and Criminal damage.

In the All Crime group Craven is second only to Lancashire Ribble Valley with our crimes per 1000 population at 8.915.

Postion Crime Type Victim per 1000/Pop

5th Robbery 0.018
8th Sexual Offences 0.180
8th Serious Sexual Offences 0.144
12th Drugs 0.920
2nd Serious Acquisitive Crime 0.902
1st Most Serious Violence 0.018
1st Violence against the Person 1.245
1st Assault with Less Serious Injury 0.577
1st Wounding (serious and other) 0.596
1st Domestic Burglary 0.409
11th Non Domestic Burglary 1.101
7th Shoplifting 0.830
4th Theft From Motor Vehicle 0.559
3rd Theft of Motor Vehicles 0.144
1st Theft of Pedal Cycles 0.126
5th Theft and Handling 2.779
1st Criminal damage 1.353

It is pretty impressive to have come second when some of our most similar districts show 0 for some of the crime groups. As I have pointed out before Drugs offences normally show police activity so oddly the worse we do the more active we have been. Shoplifting is also one of those groups which can be disproportionately effected by the activity of store detectives.

Sexual Offences require further review although the figures are small it would be worth looking again.

Clearly the area for closer scrutiny is Burglary of Sheds, Garages and outbuildings (non domestic Burglary) and we will be working hard to reduce this even further.

Overall though a healthy result for Craven.

PCSO 3578 PERKINS PAGE

2011-09-17T22:09:00.002+01:00

For everyone that thought we we're being attacked on the evening of the 25th of August don't worry we had the police helicopter out in the early hours looking for a missing local man, thank you to the residents of Cowling who rang in with possible sightings and checked their outbuildings in the pouring rain,I'm pleased to say he has been found safe and well.

We are continuing to monitor the speed of vehicles through the village with the use of our speed gun that was partially funded by Cowling Parish Council, if you would like to see it in action or would like to know more about how we use it please contact me at Crosshills Police Station or email me jason.perkins@northyorkshire.police.pnn.uk, please don't use this email to report crime if you need an officer to attend ring 08456060247 or 999 if you see a crime in progress or there is a risk to life or property.

Lead thefts are continuing to be a problem with Holy Trinity Church being attacked again on the 24th August this problem isn't confined to Cowling please report any suspicious activity at the time if possible. We are actively stopping vehicle collecting scrap and checking occupants and documents, if you are involved in this activity please make sure you have everything to hand this will ensure that any checks will cause minimal disruption to your day.

And finally we are looking for witnesses to a Road Traffic Collision in Middleton in the early hours of 11th September if you saw anything or have any information please contact myself or the control room on 0845 6060247 and quote ref No. 11092011-0084

Thanks

Jason

Police Warning to 4x4 Vehicle Owners

2011-09-14T18:51:00.000+01:00

North Yorkshire Police are warning owners of 4x4 vehicles especially Land Rover Defenders after recent thefts of two of these vehicles in the Hamleton & Richmondshire Area. Ensure you do not leave your vehicle keys easily accessible to a thief. Fit an immobiliser/alarm and/or Tracker system, use physical security such as steering wheel locks and clamps and use your garage if you have one.

CRIME PREVENTION LINKS

2011-09-07T21:24:00.001+01:00

Secured Home was formed to offer a unique reference point on comprehensive advice on home security and home safety.

Website: http://www.securedhome.co.uk/

A very useful website full of good information on how to tackling crime and to prevent crime. Also information on the help and support for victims of crime.

Website: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/

Neighbourhood Watch is a partnership where people come together to make their communities safer. It involves the Police, Community Safety departments of local authorities, other voluntary organisations and, above all, individuals and families who want to make their neighbourhoods better places to live.

Website: http://www.neighbourhoodwatch.uk.com

Home Office Identity Theft Prevention is a collaboration between UK financial bodies, government and the police to combat the threat of identity theft. This site can help you protect yourself, advises what to do if it happens to you and suggests where to get further help.

Website: http://www.identitytheft.org.uk

Card Watch raises awareness about all types of plastic card fraud in the UK, and provides information to prevent fraudulent use of credit cards, debit cards, cheque guarantee cards and charge cards.

Website: http://www.cardwatch.org.uk

Crimestoppers is an independent UK-wide charity working to stop crime. Crimestoppers works for you, your family and your community. Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Just tell us what you know, not who you are.

Website: http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Crime Concern is a social business with eighteen years of experience of finding sustainable solutions to crime and anti-social behaviour. We have three operational divisions, which offer prevention, offender justice and consultancy services.

Website: http://www.crimeconcern.org.uk

THEFT FROM VEHICLES

2011-07-05T13:48:00.002+01:00

This is PCSO 3578 Perkins from Crosshills Police Station. Today Tuesday 28th June 2011 we have recieved several reports from Sutton in Craven of vehicles entered and Sat Navs taken, please make sure that all items of value are removed and your vehicles are secure. In the hot weather it is tempting to leave house windows and doors open but please make sure they are secured and that no-one can gain access without your knowledge. If you see any suspicious activity please ring 0845 6060247 straight away.

Electricity meter fraud - Don’t get caught out.

2011-06-16T22:55:00.003+01:00

There is an electricity prepayment meter scam 'doing the rounds' at the moment with over 230,000 incidents and 127,000 customers affected. Please take care to avoid getting caught out by these criminals.

The fraud operates by a criminal having a master key which they use to put 'credit' on your meter and negotiates a fee for doing so. However, energy use continues and debt for that energy accrues, usually unknown to the customer, until the next legal vend.

The industry is working to try and raise awareness by its customers, and all new meters manufactured since April 2011 will no longer respond to a master key.

RING ROUND

2011-04-09T20:31:00.005+01:00

A message from PCSO 3578 Perkins at Crosshills Police Station. On the 8th of April 2011 at about 12:00hrs a small blue car possibly a micra was seen taking metal items from a farm in Carleton. If you saw this vehicle or have further details please contact me PCSO 3578 on and 0845 6060247 and quote reference number 12110055989. Please report any further suspicious vehicles as soon as possible, thankyou.

* PCSO PERKINS PAGE. *

2011-04-05T14:28:00.006+01:00

Firstly may I say thank you to all of Cowlings NHW schemes who, with the support of Ray and the Mill Croft scheme, have been one of the most active villages reporting incidents and assisting with police enquiries in the South Craven Area. This has resulted in vehicles being stopped, persons detained and crimes being detected. Most recently 'scrap collectors' were reported by three different individuals when they were seen taking items from fields and gardens without asking the owners permission. The vehicle was stopped on it's way back to West Yorkshire and two arrested. In a separate incident following a fire at Bench Farm we have had several reports of people at the premises this resulted in three persons advised and four being arrested.

Whilst these are obviously good news there have also been attacks on Holy Trinity Church and Cowling Primary school where both have been targeted for their lead flashing enquiries are on going but please ring in with any suspicious activity you see in the village, don't think it's not important you may have the missing piece of information that completes the whole picture. Information can be passed back to your co-ordinators or if you require an officer to attend ring through to North Yorkshire Police on 0845 6060247 request to go to the control room and get an incident number all jobs will be prioritised but if officers are available they will be sent to any incidents reported. If you wish to speak to an officer from Crosshills the control room can accommodate this. Crosshills Police Station is manned 24hrs a day often officers will be out on patrol so if you attend the Police Station and the door is locked please use the yellow phone outside to speak directly to the control room. In an emergency, in that there is a risk to life or there is a suspected crime in progress, please ring 999 straight away from any phone available.

With the summer coming up please try and keep valuables out of sight of opportunist thieves, keep your doors locked and close ground floor windows before you go upstairs. We have had several incidents throughout the district whereby keys have been acquired through open windows/letterboxes/cat flaps allowing access to the house and allowing vehicles to be driven away with no apparent entry to the property.

If you haven't returned your census forms officials will be visiting your property but please check identification cards and ring if anything is amiss, they shouldn't call at any address where the forms have been returned.

PCSO 3578 Jason Perkins
Crosshills Police Station
0845 6060247

New Mobile Web App

2011-03-31T15:45:00.000+01:00

NYP has launched an official mobile web application.

Designed in-house at zero cost, the application allows users of smartphones such as the iphone, to access key parts of the NYP website including:

a search facility for local Safer Neighbourhood details
local alerts such as flood and weather warnings
crime prevention advice
latest news from the Press Office
overview information about NYP
links to NYP’s presence on social networking sites.

You can access the app from your smartphone by typing www.nyp.mobi in to your phone’s internet browser then adding the link to your phone’s home screen. There is a button for leaving feedback within the app which would be gratefully received.

RING ROUND

2011-03-26T20:08:00.002Z

[Reference: NYP-26032011-0077 EX51UVV Lead theft ]

In the early hours of Saturday 26th March a vehicle was stopped in Steeton, in the vehicle was a quantity of lead flashing suspected to be stolen. Can you check your property for damage and make owners of vulnerable buildings in your area aware of the incident. If any losses have occurred please ring-- 0845 6060247

and quote ref--- NYP-26032011-0077.

RING ROUND

2011-03-20T21:30:00.004Z

[Reference: UK Claims]

On 20/03/2011, I PCSO 6245 Battisson was contacted by a concerned resident in Gargrave, near Skipton. This was in regards to a phone call she received from an Eric Dowson, who claimed to be calling from UK Claims (www.ukclaims.org). The resident received this call within the last week. He told the resident that she could claim compensation from a road traffic accident that occured just over a year ago. She asked him where he got his information from & he said from the police. The police would not have passed personal information such as this over to this company. The resident asked for further company details but Eric Dowson refused to supply them. She finished the phone call there and then.

If you have any information regarding an incident such as this, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 24 7 or Consumer Direct 08454 04 05 06.

I have made Consumer Direct/Trading Standards aware of this company and this incident. They inform me that this is a tactic these companies commonly use into gaining the trust of people and to obtain their information. They also informed me that they will investigate this further as they are not happy with their approach in this incident.

The scammers are clever, and all kinds of people from all walks of life get tricked. If you let down your guard, you too could become a victim. So please be vigilant.

Sgt Scott Retires.

2011-03-09T17:28:00.002Z

On the 8th March Sergeant Scott Retired and has been replaced by Sergeant Paul Taylor 1264.

We would like to thank Sergeant Scott for his help,guidance and commitment with helping Mill Croft Neighbourhood watch become more effective.

We wish him a peaceful and contented retirement.

RINGROUND

2011-03-03T17:26:00.006Z

[Reference: 12110031883]

Between 24/02/11 and 26/02/11 Kettlewell Primary School has been broken into. Offenders smashed a glass panel in the front door to gain access and approximately 30 lap tops have been stolen. If you have any information that could help the Police please call 0845 6060247. Can we ask Schools and people who live near to our rural schools to be extra vigilant and report and any suspicious activity. Thank you

RING ROUND

2011-02-19T15:59:00.002Z

[Reference: 12110026083]

Within the last 3 weeks there have been 2 thefts of lead from the roof of Cowling Church and the theft of the lightening conductor.We are appealing for help in both finding who is responsinle for attacking you local church, and also to ask for help in being vigilant to try and prevent any further thefts.

If you see any suspicious activiy around the church please call the Police immediately. If you have any information that might help us to identify those responsible, please conatct you local Police team at Crosshills on 0845 6060247 ext 3070. Thank you.

RING ROUND

2011-01-30T11:39:00.002Z

[Reference: Home Security European Environmental Controls Ltd]

On Friday 28/01/2011, a couple of concerned Grassington residents attended Grassington Police Station to speak to myself, PCSO 6245 Battisson. This was in regards to a company called Home Security European Environmental Controls Ltd who have been targeting the said complainant's elderly neighbours. One of the neighbours is a man in his 80s. He was given a quote for £2995 for a security package of: 4 Channel Colour Digital Video Recorder, 1 x 14" high resolution Colour monitor and 2 x high resolution red colour cameras and 2 Bell boxes.

The sales rep was said to have a Liverpool accent.

I saw a recent report that stated: 'Alarm outfit European Environmental Controls Ltd has lost the latest round in its battle with the Office of Fair Trading.'

The history of this operation goes back to at least 2003, when Surrey Police said a pensioner was visited more than 20 times by European Environmental Controls Ltd reps before being persuaded to spend £10,000.

I have informed Trading Standards.

If you have any cause for concern regarding contact from this company, please inform Trading Standards by: email: 'trading.standards@northyorks.gov.uk'

Consumer advice in North Yorkshire is provided by Consumer Direct on 0845 404 0506. Opening times: 8.30 to 5 Monday to Thursday and 8.30 to 4.30 Friday.

RING ROUND

2011-01-28T22:17:00.003Z

[Reference: 1211001448 - Suspect vehicle ]

On Thursday 27/01/2011 during the day time, we received a report of a White Ford Transit panel van with a registration plate of BN54 XHF acting suspiciously in the Bolton Abbey area. Particularly in the Beamsley and Hazlewood areas of this district.

The two males seen in the said vehicle are believed to be from the Darlington area and have been attending farms in the mentioned areas. The only description of the males given is that they are youngish. They have been loitering around and when approached by a farmer they stated that they were trying to buy scrap batteries. Their behaviour has been reported to be suspicious.

If you see the vehicle and it's occupants or have any information relating to this incident, please contact-

North Yorkshire Police on 0845 60 60 247 quoting reference NYP-27012011-0194.

CRIMESTOPPERS 10 MOST WANTED

2011-01-27T22:22:00.008Z

Crimestoppers have launched a list of the 10 ‘Most Wanted’ people sought in connection with distraction burglaries.

Three of last year’s 10 ‘Most Wanted’ received prison sentences, which highlights the value of the campaign. By raising the profile of the individuals, valuable information was brought forward leading to successful prosecutions.
The campaign also seeks to highlight the importance of being careful who you let into your home especially as it approaches February, a time of year when burglaries traditionally peak. Distraction burglars trick their way in to the houses of the elderly and vulnerable, by pretending to be a type of official or asking for assistance.

The 10 ‘Most Wanted’ individuals are featured on Crimestoppers Most Wanted site:
www.crimestoppers-uk.org/wanted

If you have any information on these most wanted individuals, please contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously, or fill in an online form at
www.crimestoppers-uk.org

RING ROUND

2011-01-27T22:16:00.005Z

[Reference: National Lottery Scam]

National NHW have issued a warning about a National Lottery scam that seems to be occurring more frequently.

Often scammers will send letters, text messages, emails or make phone calls informing the recipient that they have won a huge amount of money, despite never buying a ticket.

One of the current scams in operation involves a message from the UK National Lottery Organisation informing winners that they have won £1,000,000. Winners are falsely requested to make contact with the organisers to claim their free prize.

Scammers will then use this information to obtain personal details which may in some cases involve the recipient providing bank details and sending in administration fees, consequently falling victim to the scam.

Don’t become a victim. Take the following steps to protect yourself:
• Ask yourself, how could you win a lottery if you had never purchased a ticket
• Remember that, if you have won something, you shouldn’t have to pay anything to get your prize
• Never reveal credit card or bank details unless you are sure who you are dealing with

If you have been caught out by a scam or wish to report a scam, please contact Consumer Direct for advise on 08454 04 05 06.

For more information about other scams in operation and how to protect yourself, please visit the Office of Fair Trading Website.

RING ROUND

2010-12-15T17:01:00.006Z

On 11/12/10 a number of distraction burglaries of elderly people with a Water Board Modus Operandi occurred in West Yorkshire. Violence was used on one occasion where the elderly victim was punched.

Sightings of a Black Ford Focus, BF51GYA, were reported from the scenes, with a number of occupants within. The vehicle is reported to have no current keeper.

This vehicle is believed to be currently used by a group of travelling criminals actively involved in distraction offences.

Please can all persons be aware of this vehicle.
Thank you

RING ROUND

2010-11-26T16:26:00.002Z

[NYP Community Messaging - Craven - 12100203443]

Last night between 21.15 and 22.00 a number of vans were broken into on the Broughton Road area of Skipton. Power tools have been stolen.
3 males were seen making off in the direction of Broughton Road towards Broughton in a white transit van.
If anyone has any information regarding this matter please do not hesitate to contact North Yorkshire Police . In the mean time please ensure that all tools are removed from vehicles. Thankyou.

RING ROUND

2010-11-24T17:35:00.001Z

[NYP Community Messaging - Admin - Hoax Warning messages]

NYP are recieving many reports about various text and email 'warnings' in circulation and are being requested to send them out via Ringmaster.

In many (not all) cases these messages are hoaxes or scams to just generate internet traffic where email addresses can be skimmed off and used to send further spam mail. Messages often include reference to a local area or statements such as "it happend to my friend" to dramatise the message and make it seem much more personal and more credible to increase the liklihood of you sending it on.

These obviously cause concern to the recipients so we would advise that you check messages before distributing them. There are various sites on the internet where you can check these out, some examples are below, or you can just put the key points of the message in a Google search and you will find information on the messages.
http://www.safefromscams.co.uk/
http://www.hoax-slayer.com/
http://www.snopes.com/

Not all messages are totally ficticious, there are elements of truth in many, for example the current one doing the rounds warning about PDS (Parcel Delivery Service)was a true scam in late 2005 but despite claims in the warning, the scam is not reoccurring in 2010 that we are aware of.

There are also some elements of common good practice in many of these warnings, the most common of which is that financial institutions such as banks or credit card companies will never ask for security information (either over the telephone or by email) and therefore you should never give it out or click on links in the emails, no matter how convincing the story. Our advice is that if you are concerned and think it may be genuine, end the call and make direct contact with the credit card company or bank yourself using numbers either on your cards or bank statements and check with them or logon to the website properly, never through emailed links as these go to very convincing replica (phishing) sites that will capture all your login details if you enter them.

We hope this advice helps reduce any concerns you may have about incidents of such crimes actually occurring in North Yorkshire and provides some useful advice.

RING ROUND

2010-11-02T20:06:00.006Z

[NYP Community Messaging - Craven - 12100188238]

Cars in rural areas of Craven have been targeted. the locations are as follows

A ford transit parked at Selside, a BMW parked at Horton in Ribblesdale, a vehicle parked between
Grassington and Conistone and a vehicle parked in the National Parks car park at Grassington. All
vehicles had a window smashed to gain access and from two of them hamdbags where stolen. Can
we ask if possible all items are taken out of your vehicle when it is parked up or at least moved into the
boot out of sight. if you have seen any supect activity in any of the above areas,

RING ROUND

2010-11-02T16:54:00.002Z

[NYP Community Messaging - Craven - 12100186034]

On the 28th October 2010 between 08.30 & 16.00 metal items were taken from a front garden

on the Burnside area of Skipton. The items could possible have been taken for scrap.

If anyone has any information regarding this matter please contact North Yorkshire Police.

RING ROUND

2010-10-26T14:23:00.001+01:00

[NYP Community Messaging - Craven - 12100184004]

On the 25th October 2010 around 13.30 in the afternoon on Tarn
Moor Crescent in Skipton, a male approached a property and
asked the elderly female if she wanted the tops of her trees removing.
A price was agreed and paid for but the job was not carried out.
The male is descrived as white, 6ft 4, stocky build, unshaven,grey jacket,
with a hi-vis top over the top. He had a local accent and was possibly
wearing heavy duty boots.

The male was in a white flatbed truck with ladders on the back.
Has this man called at any other houses?
If you have any information please contact North Yorkshire Police.
Can we also ask that you look out for all your neighbours.

Thankyou.

RING ROUND

2010-10-23T15:31:00.003+01:00

[NYP Community Messaging - Craven - 12100181044]

Police are appealing for witnesses after a offroad motorcycle was stolen from a garage on
Woodland Street in Cowling overnight on 191010. The garages are in a residential area
and we are hoping that someone may have seen someone either loading a bike into a van

or wheeling a bike away from the scene. If you have any information that could help the Police please call 08456060247. Thank you

RING ROUND

2010-10-14T18:55:00.004+01:00

[NYP Community Messaging - Admin - Telephone Scam]

Information has been recieved about a telephone Credit Card scam in another Police Force area and a NHW member has asked that we pass it onto members.

The caller introduces themselves as being from the security and fraud department of the credit card comapny. They will provide you with all the information and do not ask for your card number as they already have it. This is what makes this scam so plausible.

They will state that there has been unusual activity on your account and ask you to verify a particular purchase. When you say you don't recognise the purchase or amount they advise you they have been watching the company and will credit the amount back to your account and will provide a reference.

They will state they you need to verify you are in possession of your card and to do this will ask you for the last 3 numbers off the back of the card.

These are security numbers that would allow them to use the card fraudulently and should not be given.

Your Bank or Credit Card comapany will never ask you for personal information or security information in this manner. Always be suspicious of such calls. If need be, hang up and make direct contact with the company uourself to verify the conversation.

Please pass this on. By informing each other, we protect each other.

SUCCESS

2010-09-23T15:32:00.001+01:00

Yesterday at approx' 2pm. A 'Pickup' entered the Scheme area and items were taken from a Members property.A scheme Member notified one of our coordinators and the Police were contacted immediately.The said vehicle was stopped by the Police and after further investigations,Two people have been arrested and their vehicle impounded.

If any members of the public have had metal items stolen from their property's please contact-

Skipton Police.

It Could be linked to this incident.

RING ROUND.

2010-09-03T17:22:00.001+01:00

We would like to make you aware of thefts of lead from rural churches in Craven.  Churches in Kirkby Malham, Gargrave and Carleton have already been targeted. Can we enlist your help by asking you to be vigilant and report to us any suspious activity you may see around your village churches.  If you see any people in the church yard in the hours of darkness or hear any banging noises coming from the churchyard in the hours of darkness or see any vehicles travelling in your village at night without their lights on then please contact the Police immediately.  Thankyou.

NEW DEPUTY COORDINATORS

2010-08-28T22:38:00.002+01:00

Mill Croft has now got two new Deputy coordinators to help with the running of the scheme.

Many thanks to LINDA HALL 11, Mill croft.

And TRACEY SOLLEY 36, Mill Croft.

CRIME FIGURES FOR -01/02/10--31/05/10

2010-08-27T15:47:00.005+01:00

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME PACK

2010-08-19T20:40:00.003+01:00

A Mill Croft Neighbourhood Watch 'Welcome Pack' is given to all NEW residents who have moved within the scheme area. The pack contains a letter explaining everything members need to know about the watch with relevant contact details and a brief history of the watch.

Contents Of The Welcome Pack

Welcome Pack

A4 Welcome Letter

A4 Useful Numbers Sheet

Welcome To Neighbourhood Watch Booklet

A Practical Guide To Crime Prevention Booklet

Window stickers/logos

NO-COLD CALLING ZONE.

2010-08-19T16:32:00.002+01:00

On 16th August 2010 Mill Croft became a NO cold calling Zone Area which should stop any unwanted callers selling their goods door to door.

Each member received a Trading standards pack explaining the ins and outs of this scheme.

Many thanks to PCSO Jason Perkins for helping the Neighbourhood watch secure this status.

SECURING YOUR HOME

2010-08-18T20:48:00.001+01:00

Is your home attractive to the opportunist thief? All householders within Neighbourhood Watch areas should have reasonable basic security. Advice is freely available from your Community Officer and Crime Prevention Officers. You should also remember to use security already installed. It is easy to relax that security by thinking that we are only going to be "one minute". That minute is all the opportunist thief needs. Neighbours and friends can be called upon to keep an eye on your home while you are away, by clearing letter boxes, mowing the front lawn and generally giving the appearance of the house being occupied.
STICKER FADE HOW'S YOUR STICKER?

Has your sticker disappeared or become faded? If so, contact your street or area co-ordinator for a new one.
The sticker indicates that you are security minded, your property is identifiable and you are alert to the need to keep an eye on neighbour's property.
This brings us onto unwarranted and bogus callers at the door. NEVER open the door to any person unknown to you, no matter how friendly they appear. ALWAYS use your telescopic door viewer and then your door chain. Identification of an unknown caller is vital before letting them enter. If you are in any doubt at all then do not open the door.

WATCH OUT FOR THE DOORSTEP CONMEN CONFIDENCE tricksters, maybe known more commonly as conmen, come in all shapes and sizes - male and female, young and old.
Their objective is to steal from unsuspecting persons, particularly the elderly.
This offence, known to the police as burglary artifice, and is still much too prevalent.
You must remain on your guard to ensure that complacency is not allowed to creep in.
Some of the methods used by young people to gain entry to your home include asking to use the toilet, for a glass of water, or to look for a dog or ball in the back garden.
Adult confidence tricksters may claim to represent Social Services, the Council, or the gas, water or electricity boards.
They trick their way in to steal such things as cash, jewellery, pension and benefit books, cheque books and cards and savings books.
We ask that you take these simple precautions to defeat the confidence trickster:

ALWAYS answer the door with the chain in place;
NEVER invite anyone in without an appointment;
NEVER keep large sums of money in the house;
ALWAYS check the identity of service industry callers by asking for your account number;
ALWAYS deal with reputable tradesmen and never part with money on the promise of work to be done.

WHEN IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT AND CALL THE POLICE SECURITY CHECKLIST

An Englishman's home may be his castle, but does he take the trouble to defend it? Nine out of ten break-ins are through insecure doors and windows. You don't have to live in a fortress to deter thieves - just take a few precautions.
What you have to do to make and keep your home safe? Take direct action now to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of burglary! Use this checklist.
* When you go out, secure all windows in the house. Thieves can gain access through the smallest window.
* Never leave windows open a few inches so that pets can get in and out, Burglars find this useful too.
* Windows near flat roofs are particularly vulnerable. Never leave lavatory windows open when you are out. They are often close to drainpipes which allow thieves to climb up. Consider using anti-climb paint.
* Fit good locks to all accessible windows.
* Never leave your door key under the mat, flower pot or hanging on a string behind the letterbox. Thieves always look in these places first.
* Make sure the inside latch of your front door can't be opened through the letterbox - fit a deadlock to the door
* Remember thieves have to get in and out. If your back door locks with a key, remove the key and use the door bolts.
* Keep your shed, garage and external stores locked. Tools are valuable and can be used to gain access.
* Never leave ladders lying about - clamp or padlock them to something secure.
* Leave a light on and illuminate dark areas around your house - burglars don't like lights
* Make sure that your house and contents are adequately insured.

GARAGES AND GARDEN SHEDS

In many cases burglars use tools and garden implements from sheds and garages to break into houses. Ensure your outbuildings are secure and that items such as ladders are unable to be utilised by the thief.

SIDE PASSAGES

Stop a thief from getting to the rear of your house where he can work undisturbed. Fit a strong, high gate with trellis above if necessary. Shared sideways can also mean shared cost and shared security.

a) MARK YOUR PROPERTY
OR
b) VALUABLE MARKING
OR
c) DETER A THIEF PROPERTY marking is a simple way to mark all your possessions with your postcode and house number.
This deters a thief, helps in the return of stolen property, and also helps the police to achieve successful prosecutions.
Stickers indicate that the contents of your home have been property marked. If you need more advice, contact your street or area co-ordinator.

CRIME PREVENTION LINKS.

2010-08-17T18:25:00.002+01:00

Secured Home was formed to offer a unique reference point on comprehensive advice on home security and home safety.

Website: http://www.securedhome.co.uk/

A very useful website full of good information on how to tackling crime and to prevent crime. Also information on the help and support for victims of crime.

Website: http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/

Website: http://www.neighbourhoodwatch.uk.com

Website: http://www.identitytheft.org.uk

Website: http://www.cardwatch.org.uk

Website: http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Crime Reduction Website - advice, guidance, statistics and resources for crime reduction practitioners.

Website: http://www.crimereduction.gov.uk

Website: http://www.crimeconcern.org.uk