Neighbourhood Watch

Todwick Neighbourhood Watch Newsletter

December 2014

MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Welcome to all those villagers who have signed up to the Todwick Neighbourhood Watch since our last newsletter in September 2014. We hope that you find these newsletters informative and useful and we always value your information and feedback. We never publish anyone’s name, address or any other private details.

Bogus Callers – Beware – They are here

Please be aware, within the last few days we have received several reports of ‘canvassers’ for a well known animal welfare charity being in the village. The reports claim they want your bank details and also claim that you cannot donate to the charity ‘on line’. On 5th December I spoke with a representative of the charity who confirmed that they do NOT have any canvassers in the S26 area this week and that anyone CAN donate on the internet. We urge you to exercise caution.

Please be aware that an unpleasant incident happened in a local village very recently where 2 men, posing as water board officials, managed to steal a wallet containing a “substantial” amount of money. The elderly lady was asked to check her taps and was convinced she had a problem. Sadly she did not realise the money had gone until after the event. The men are described as white, 5 feet 11 inches tall, early 20s, slim build, black hair, one wearing a hi viz orange jacket. Water boards do not exist any more. If you are not expecting workmen, do not let them in your home. Ask for identification. ALWAYS telephone the company, using a telephone number from the phone book (NOT THE ONE THEY GIVE YOU) to verify that they are genuine.

We have also been asked to make you aware that the parcel collection scam is, again, high profile. If you are not expecting a parcel but have a note to telephone an 0906 number, best advice is to ignore the issue.

2014 Rotherham Show

During the September 2014 Rotherham Show, Rotherham Neighbourhood Watch had a stand at the Rotherham Show. We were delighted when Todwick Neighbourhood Watch was asked if we would like to take part with the stall. We took this opportunity to go to find out more about the show. We were there early on the Sunday morning & we were very surprised at the number of enquiries we received from people who lived in the borough. Clearly the concept and benefits of the Neighbourhood Watch scheme are spreading. If anyone would like any further information about the stall, or might like to take part in the future, please let Norman know. PS It is a good show all round!!

Age UK

In conjunction with the national organisation Age UK, we have a number of booklets available free of charge. “Winter wrapped up” deals with keeping well and staying warm in winter. “More money in your pocket” gives advice to claiming benefits for people over pension age and “Save energy, pay less” covers improving energy efficiency. If anyone would like one (or more) of these free booklets, please contact Norman. I will deliver to you within the village.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarms

It is a few years since we began our very successful carbon monoxide awareness scheme in Todwick. These alarms have a limited working life and every few years need replacing. May we ask that if you have a CO alarm that you check it to make sure it is working. If you do not have a (CO) alarm you may need to consider if you do need to have one. In recent years incidents have been recorded where carbon monoxide gas has seeped into adjoining properties. Remember this is the silent killer, it has no smell, you cannot see it and can be present in any home, caravan, motor-home or tent which has a fuel burning heater / cooker. Recently we have received several requests for replacement alarms, so please check yours. We can supply replacement CO alarms at a very reasonable cost. Batteries are included. Please contact Norman. I will deliver to you within the village.

Gas Safe

Always check if you are having any gas work done at home or elsewhere that the engineer/ fitter is on the Gas Safe register. This register replaced the Corgi system.

Only people who are on the register are legally allowed to work on gas appliances. Don’t just accept his /her word they are registered – check it. Either telephone 0800 408 5500 or visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk to ensure that the work-person is qualified to work on your particular appliance.

Contact Information

S.Y. Police non-emergency calls to report crime or give information dial 101
S.Y. Police / Ambulance / Fire & Rescue emergency dial 999

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

Electricity emergency 0800 375 675

Crime Statistics

The reported crime statistics for Todwick for September, October & November 2014 inclusive, kindly provided by South Yorkshire Police are as follows:

Other miscellaneous thefts	1
Burglary in a building (non dwelling)	1
Burglary in a dwelling	1
Theft from shops and stalls	1
Wounding or inflicting GBH without intent	1
Possession of cannabis	1
Anti social behaviour (covering noise, nuisance, vehicle nuisance and neighbour nuisance)	4

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

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

Norman Anderson (chair)