Police Report

OVER the past few months, things have been quieter than usual with few incidents of note. Hopefully this will not be the lull before the storm. Break-ins increase at this time of year so please be vigilant, ensure you lock up before you leave, and keep some lights on to give the impression that your residence is occupied.

Recently there have been several incidents where workmen have called on resident's doorsteps looking for jobs, but the standard of workmanship offered has been less than desirable. If you do encounter such people, it is worthwhile checking with TRADING STANDARDS. The can provide advice on your legal rights and guidance in dealing with doorstep sellers, including those involved with home  improvements Contact number 01224 523737.

 SENIOR CITIZEN ASSISTANCE NETWORK

(or SCAN) is a voluntary organisation who, as part of their service, can provide advice for elderly people as to the ploys of bogus workers. They also provide information on home security. Contact number: 01224 495252.

In the past week there was a break-in in Milltimber. Travelling workmen touting for work, who were using s white van, were seen in the area around the time of the incident. If you do see anyone doing this and you are suspicious, please do not hesitate to

contact the Police and provide details such as:

• Description of person or persons involved

• Registration, make, model and colour of any vehicle they are using.

Recently there was an incident where a gravestone was damaged in St Peter's churchyard. A vandal tried to prise a porcelain picture off a gravestone. The person who committed this mindless act obviously did not take into account the affect it had on the relatives. If anyone is aware of who is responsible, please contact the Police on 0845 600 5700.

As it was coming to the festive season, I wish to pass on some handy hints from our Crime Reduction Department in relation to the use of cash dispensers or ATMs.

Top Tips When Using a Cash Machine:

Choosing, Using and Leaving

Choosing a Cash Machine

• Always put your personal safety first. If it's dark or the ATM is in a secluded place, consider using one where there is plenty of light and good numbers of people about.

• Be aware of others around you. If someone close to the cash machine is behaving suspiciously or makes you feel uncomfortable, please choose another machine or come back later.

• If there is anything unusual about the cash machine, or there are signs of tampering, then do not use the machine and report it to the bank immediately.

Using a Cash Machine

• Give other users space to enter their PIN number in private. We recommend standing about two metres away from the user in front of you until they complete their transaction.

• Be aware of your surroundings. If someone is crowding or watching

you, cancel the transaction and go to another machine.

• Do not accept help from 'well­meaning strangers and never allow yourself to be distracted. Remember criminals sometimes work in pairs, without giving the appearance that they are together.

• Stand close to the cash machine and always shield the keypad to avoid anyone seeing you enter your PIN.

Leaving a Cash Machine

• Once you have completed a transaction, discreetly put your money away before leaving the cash machine.

• If the machine does not return your card, report its loss immediately to your bank.

• Dispose of your cash machine receipt, mini-statement or balance enquiry with care. Tear up or preferably shred these items before discarding them.

Well this is the last Culter Courier for 2004, so I hope you all have a Happy Christmas and a Good New Year.

© CulterNET 2008