In Suffolk police are teaming up with the local Ernest Doe branch at Marlesford to help get rural crime reduction messages out – via a liveried tractor and a new booklet. The company have provided Suffolk Police with a Case IH tractor, free, to assist police in raising the profile of steps that can be taken to prevent rural crime in the county.
The liveried tractor, with blue flashing lights, will hopefully act as a hook to attract the attention of members of the public at trade shows, county fairs, farmers markets and rural events during 2012 – including the Suffolk Show. Police are also launching a new booklet ‘Shutting the gate on rural crime’ designed to give advice to land and home owners on measures that can be taken to protect property in rural locations.
This includes advice on general security, as well as information on how to deter fly tipping, illegal off-roading, metal and diesel thefts, and details of conservation and wildlife legislation. The booklet also carries useful contact information.
It’s hoped that the tractor will draw attention at the variety of county and rural shows attended by Ernest Doe and give the opportunity to raise awareness of rural crime issues by engaging with residents to ensure everything possible is being done to reduce the chances of individuals and landowners becoming victims of offences.
David Kane, from Suffolk Police’s crime reduction team, said; “Officers cannot tackle rural crime without the co-operation and support of communities. Policing in rural areas brings some very specific and unique challenges, with the distances involved and the isolated nature of some communities sometimes leading to a sense of vulnerability and a heightened fear of crime.”
Paul Marshall, Assistant Chief Constable for Suffolk, said; “This is an excellent initiative, which has my full support, showing that we all have a responsibility and part to play in preventing rural crime. This initiative would not have been possible without the commitment from Ernest Doe and Case IH and we are grateful for their support.”
Chris Chilvers of Ernest Doe said; “We are pleased to have been able to assist. Rural crime is becoming an increasingly serious issue and we are sure this initiative will go a long way towards promoting security in agricultural and rural communities.”
