Neighbourhood Watch

Todwick Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter

June 2013

Welcome to all those villagers who have signed up to the Todwick Neighbourhood Watch since our last newsletter in March 2013. We hope that you find these newsletters informative and useful and we always value your information and feedback.

Annual General Meeting

Just a timely reminder that the Todwick Neighbourhood Watch Annual General Meeting will take place in Todwick Village Hall on Thursday 27th June 2013 starting at 7.30 pm. The meeting is open to all residents of the village. This is currently the only meeting that we hold so you are most welcome to attend.

Handyperson Services

We have come across 2 independent services run in the locality for those odd jobs that need doing about the house. Routine repairs, like dripping taps, small jobs like fixing security lights, fitting door chains, decorating rooms, gardening, changing light bulbs, fitting key safes, grab-rails etc. But if you can’t do them yourself, they are not routine or small jobs. So, if you are over 55, or maybe with mobility issues or feel vulnerable then perhaps we can put you in touch with someone “who can do”. If you need help, please contact Norman for further information & telephone numbers.

No Cold Calling

The no cold calling zones currently in Todwick are increasing, but very slowly. Despite notices in the zones, some residents are still experiencing cold calling from sales people. Should this happen to you, the best advice is to point out the No Cold Calling notice and ask the person to leave. If the person becomes aggressive or abusive, we advise you to close and lock the door, and then contact the Police immediately on telephone number 101.

Distraction Burglaries

As we approach summer and hopefully some warm weather, many of us will be pottering about in the garden. We strongly recommend that you lock the house doors when you go into the garden and keep the door key safe on your person. Distraction burglaries take many forms. Sometimes it may be a stranger who is asking for directions. Whilst you are distracted an accomplice may be trying to get into your home. If the door is not locked they can just walk in and help themselves. Another form of this crime is the unexpected visit by a person who says he / she is from the Water Board, Local Authority, Gas Board etc. They may try to gain access to your home on the pretext of checking something in the house. Unless it is a genuine emergency, all the utilities companies make appointments to visit, unless they are meter readers. If in doubt, keep them out!

Thefts from Gardens

Whilst on the subject of gardens, please be aware that recently we have again heard of the theft of an ornamental garden feature. It doesn’t seem to matter how big or heavy the object, it could disappear, & it is usually overnight. When you are out and about, please be aware of any unusual vehicle activity in your area. If you can, please make a note of the registration number and report it to the Police on telephone number 101.

Credit Card Usage

Please be aware of the following if you use a credit card to buy goods or services, especially on the internet. Certain retailers may offer a free trial for a product or service. When you enter into this free trial and give your credit card details you are entering into a contract with the merchant. Once the trial period has elapsed, if you have not cancelled the agreement within the trial period the merchant can commence charging your credit card account at regular intervals.

Caravans & Motor-Homes

With holidays looming, those people with caravans or motor-homes will be getting their mobile homes ready for the road. I still have a few copies of the notes made by South Yorkshire Police on security of these expensive items. Please contact Norman for a free copy.

Contact Information

South Yorkshire Police non-emergency calls to report crime or give information dial 101.

Crimestoppers to give information about crime (you do not have to give your name) dial 0800 555 111 open Mon – Fri 8 am to 10 pm & Sunday 10 am to 4 pm.

Action Fraud this is the government run reporting centre for fraud. Calls can be made on 0300 123 2040 anonymously or text on 0300 123 2050.

Streetpride part of Rotherham Borough Council. For most general problems with bin emptying, damaged bins, street lighting, potholes & other problems associated with roads & pavements 01709 336003.

Crime Statistics

The crime statistics for Todwick for March, April & May 2013 inclusive, kindly provided by South Yorkshire Police are as follows:

Miscellaneous theft	1
Burglary – not dwelling	1
Burglary in a dwelling	2
Interference – motor vehicle	2
Anti social behaviour	0

Thanks to all the villagers who have provided details of incidents and issues.

Thanks also to Sheila Pantry for ensuring that our village website www.todwick.org.uk shows our newsletters.

Norman Anderson (chair)