Joint bid to stamp out rural crime in Isle

North Lincolnshire Council with Humberside Police ask people who live and work across the Isle to take notice of their surroundings, to share any knowledge that they have and to report any suspicious activity to police.

Countrywatch was developed in other parts of North Lincolnshire after an increasing number of criminals hit rural areas. Hare coursing and poaching are rife but in addition to wildlife crimes, crops can be destroyed by vehicles. Landowners may receive threats, and suffer from the theft of costly items and machinery.

By introducing early warning systems, it is hoped that crime can be reduced, awareness of anything suspicious will spread quickly, information can be relayed at speed, and everyone will feel safer as a result.

Inspector Timothy Harvey, Humberside Police, said: “Humberside Police is delighted to support the re-launch of Countrywatch, a multi-agency approach to reducing wildlife crime and dealing with issues which impact on our rural communities. It is a system which has proved successful in other areas of North Lincolnshire and I am sure it will have a positive impact on the Isle.

“The three wards of Axholme have a new Community Beat Manager, PC 736 Jane Proud, based at Epworth Police Station, who will work alongside PCSOs and Special Constables. It will be response patrol officers who will be dispatched to attend any emergency calls should you ever have the need to call 999. I would also emphasise how important the public are in helping us to keep our communities safe. Your information, your vigilance and your actions can play a significant role in reducing crime and disorder.”

To use Countrywatch, residents should report information to the police, if urgent on 999, or non-emergencies on 101. Mention Countrywatch.