WITH an increase in crimes being committed against the farming communities, Bude Rural Beat Manager PC Gary Luxton has reminded members of the public of the support and advice that is available.
Within the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary there is a community messaging service that enables the police to get information out to, and ask for information from, specific groups within the community.
PC Luxton explained: "There has been a significant increase in farm buildings, and other storage facilities being targeted by thieves for thefts of fuel and machinery, along with livestock. Due to the very rural areas that these crimes are happening in they often go undetected. The messaging service serves to act to protect others once a problem has arisen, and is a way to give information to large groups within a short period of time.
"This is achieved by yourselves spending two minutes to read a form, fill in your contact details and post back in the pre-paid envelope. Then when an incident occurs, that is relevant, participants will receive a phone call, or email, to warn them to be extra vigilant and make sure their farms are secure."
PC Luxton asked that anybody who is interested in this service, which is free, and has a farm in the following communities — Morwenstow, Kilkhampton, Jacobstow, Boyton, Whitstone, North Tamerton, Poundstock, Week St Mary, Launcells and Marhamchurch — to make contact with him for more information.
He can be contacted on 01288 357502 or alternatively you can email [email protected]">[email protected].