Crowthorne and Sandhurst

Here is the January/February neighbourhood update for Crowthorne.

As you are all aware, 2010 has begun with some very wintry weather. This has meant Crowthorne schools have been closed, roads have been treacherous and many shops unable to open. There were quite a few reports of anti-social behaviour around the area involving snowballs being thrown. These were dealt with as quickly as possible and patrols carried out, so that the problem was minimised and local people were able to enjoy themselves in the snow.

We have tried our utmost to keep business ticking over as usual. Our Crowthorne neighbourhood team actually had additional officers and staff on duty, as some people came here when they were not able to report to their usual place of work in Thames Valley. Our team carried out foot patrols wherever possible, showing a highly visible presence and providing help where needed. We contacted vulnerable members of the public and gave reassurance wherever possible. It was heartening to see community groups rallying round and supporting the police and local authorities during the difficult weather conditions.

Anti-social behaviour in Crowthorne is still low, which has been a brilliant start to the year. Many youngsters congregated on the recreation ground to build snowmen and play with friends.

The Crowthorne Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) meeting held on 8 December went well and we discussed what has been achieved so far with the neighbourhood priorities. PCSO Katherine Bullen will be holding the next beat surgery on 4 March at Crowthorne Library from 11am to 12pm.

We have been promoting the ‘Clear Car Campaign’ extensively this month. Crowthorne PCSO Bullen has been giving advice to car owners about leaving valuables on display. Remember it takes 32 seconds for an opportunist thief to break in and grab your belongings. Unfortunately there was a vehicle break-in just before Christmas on Upper Broadmoor Road, when expensive items were taken. Thankfully, police managed to retrieve the stolen items and suspects were arrested for this crime.

If you would like to contact your neighbourhood team or to report a crime, please contact Thames Valley Police on their non-emergency phone number: 0845 8 505 505.

Thames Valley Police ~ Crowthorne