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Older people vigilant for sneak thieves
MORE THAN 50 Newbury and Thatcham pensioners gathered yesterday (Tuesday) to learn crime-prevention tips from Sovereign Housing Association and Thames Valley Police.
Residents of Sovereign's sheltered schemes and bungalows gathered at Speenhamland Court, in Pelican Lane, to hear more from crime prevention and Neighbourhood Watch on reducing the risks of being a victim of crime. The pensioners heard that although West Berkshire is relatively safe - crime is a third of the national average - but that conmen and distraction burglars target older people. They were also advised to lock up their garden sheds, consider starting a neighbourhood watch scheme in their area, and were given details of useful phone numbers. Additionally, residents were warned to keep an eye on handbags and wallets while on supermarket trips. Sovereign Supported Housing Officer Linda Kingham said: "We should do all we can to make theft and burglary as difficult as possible. We were very pleased with the turnout, and hope to repeat the session at schemes and bungalows elsewhere in the district." Ruth Hemingway attended for Thames Valley Police, Angela Money for Neighbourhood Watch, and several members of Sovereign's property and support teams were also quizzed about security measures in sheltered schemes and bungalows.Published 20 July 2005 |
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 ©2008 Sovereign Housing Association Limited (charitable). All rights reserved. |
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