Todwick Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter
May 2010
Welcome to all those who have signed up to the Todwick Neighbourhood Watch since our last quarterly newsletter in February 2010. We hope that you find these newsletters informative and useful and we always value your information and feedback.
Beware - the unexpected telephone call
In our last newsletter we advised you that unsolicited telephone calls regarding home security were being received by Todwick residents. These calls are still being received and the latest name that is being used is National Crime Research Group. To be on the safe side we advise that you do not give any details of your home or your security arrangements in any unsolicited telephone calls. Just say "No thank-you, I am not interested" and replace the telephone handset.
Home improvements and repairs
Over the last few months we have seen an increase in the number of flat-back trucks in our village. Unfortunately some of the occupants of these vehicles are looking for scrap materials and, without permission, are not averse to removing mainly metal objects from skips left on public roads or even private drives. We have even heard of cases where return visits have been made, under the cover of darkness, and expensive garden seats, rocks and other garden ornaments have been stolen. Acknowledging that home improvements are time consuming, the Police have asked that skips are removed as soon as practically possible.
On a similar theme, we understand that building materials are also easy targets for thieves. If possible, the Police advise they be stored in a secure place or hidden from view.
Two in one burglaries
South Yorkshire Police also advise us that 2 in 1 burglaries are again on the increase in the Rotherham area. These are so called because the offenders break into your home (1) steal your car keys (and sometimes house keys) and then drive the car away (2). Best advice from the Police on this issue is not to leave house keys or car keys near outer doors where they can be easily stolen. In a similar vein, the Police in Wath, in one night, found 14 unlocked vehicles. One car contained a full set of golf clubs and a laptop computer in the boot! Please remove valuables from your car and lock it overnight.
Gardeners corner
Now the weather is improving, there is increasing activity in many gardens. We would ask that extra care be taken when storing, handling and using materials that may adversely affect wildlife, household pets or children.
Antisocial behaviours
Periodically, and sadly, we get reports of antisocial behaviour in Todwick. In March reports of egg throwing and mud throwing were experienced by residents, some of whom were elderly. This does cause distress to many of them. If you experience or see this activity, please report it immediately to the Police on 01142 202020.
Parkgate Mobility - Effingham Street, Rotherham
We are advised by the above company that "a considerable number" of their loyal customers have been approached by a bogus company who are passing themselves off as Parkgate Mobility. If you are approached and / or are in any doubt, please telephone Parkgate Mobility on 01709 378909.
Tax refund notifications
Please be aware that currently there is an e-mail circulating stating that "after the last annual calculations of your fiscal activity", you are entitled to a tax refund. You are then invited to "click here" to receive your tax refund direct into your bank account. We strongly advise that your bank details are not disclosed in unsolicited requests. If you believe you may be entitled to a tax refund, please telephone your designated Inland Revenue Office during normal office hours.
Personal attack alarms
So far we have handed out over 100 Personal Attack Alarms free of charge to residents of Todwick. They are small enough to fit into your pocket and come with batteries fitted. If you would like one please contact Norman.
Annual General Meeting
Please note in your diary that the AGM for Todwick Neighbourhood Watch will be at 8 pm on Friday 16th July 2010 in the Village Hall. All are welcome.
Quarterly crime statistics for Todwick village
We are grateful to South Yorkshire Police for their continued help support and co-operation and for the following information on crimes committed in Todwick.
Theft from motor vehicles |
4 |
Criminal Damage - other buildings |
3 |
Common Assault |
1 |
Miscellaneous Theft |
1 |
Fraud by False Representation |
1 |
At the moment, all remain undetected.
Thanks to all the villagers who have reported details of incidents so that we can alert as many people as possible of these undesirable activities.
Should you wish to know more about any of the issues raised, please contact Norman Anderson (chair).