Cheshire Constabulary Response to Home Office Statistics

 

Cheshire Constabulary response to Home Office Crime Statistics
Today’s recorded crime figures released by the Home Office confirm that Cheshire Constabulary continues to reduce levels of crime.
Overall recorded crime figures for the period June 2011 to June 2012 show a reduction in crime of 6%, which continues the downward trend in offences recorded up to the end of June this year. This equates to almost 3,500 fewer crimes reported than the same period last year.
Residents can be reassured by the fall of 8% in house burglaries across Cheshire, Halton and Warrington. Violent crime is on the decrease, with over 750 fewer victims of assault, and a fall in the number of robberies by 11%.
Deputy Chief Constable Helen King commented; "I believe the figures released today show how the Cheshire Constabulary is working effectively with partners and the public to deal with the issues that matter to local people. The continuing drop in overall crime and with less people becoming victims of very personal crime such as burglary and other violent offences such as assault and robbery, suggests Cheshire residents can have confidence in the service we provide"
DCC King continued "Victims continue to tell us that they are very satisfied with the service they receive from us and our officers are getting more positive results when investigating crime and resolving incidents of antisocial behaviour and other issues affecting our neighbourhoods. However encouraging these figures released today are, we will not become complacent. We will continue to work hard to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour to provide Cheshire residents, communities, businesses and visitors with the confidence that they are receiving a first class policing service."
Cheshire Police also encourage and advise residents to do all they can to avoid becoming a victim of crime. This is particularly relevant in the forthcoming festive period when police traditionally see a rise in alcohol related crime and disorder, particularly amongst younger people. The Constabulary have recently launched a campaign to raise awareness of this issue and practical advice is available via www.upbeat.uk.com/totallywastedor by contacting your local neighbourhood policing team on 101.

Wistaston Jubilee Proms Concert

Reporter John White

Over 60 people attended the Wistaston Jubilee Proms Concert on Thursday 18^th October at the Wistaston Memorial Hall and Community Centre, Church Lane, Wistaston.

The Concert was performed by the Crewe Concert Band - http://www.cwecb.co.uk/ - under the Musical Director Albert Dunseath. The programme started with the National Anthem and included the Royal Salute, The Yeomen of the Guard, music of The Beatles medley, First Suite in E flat (Jupiter), Cymru am byth (Song of Wales), Barnacle Bill, Irish tune from County Derry, a Scottish Rhapsody, The Dambusters, Nimrod, Fantasia on British Sea Songs. The finale included There’ll Always Be an England, I Vow to Thee, My Country, Jerusalem and Pomp and Circumstance.

The entrance tickets and raffle were organised by Glenys White, Mark Ray, Herbert Locke and Jonathan White. The interval refreshments were organised by Audrey Astbury, Olive Williams, Eileen Bamber, Kathleen Conroy, and Sue Brown.

The final sum to be shared between the Crewe Concert Band and the hall is approximately £400.

Organiser and Master of Ceremonies, John White, said, "This was rousing, patriotic Jubilee concert with the Crewe Concert Band at its best. The audience participation was outstanding. It was another very successful community event."

School Routes Reviewed

 

Councillors are taking steps to get more children walking to school in bid to boost the fitness of Cheshire East youngsters.

At yesterday’s Cabinet meeting (October 15) it was decided that a vast network of overlooked and untapped school routes will be assessed for future use, after it was revealed that some had not been evaluated for at least a quarter of a century.

Since then, improvements have been made to the highway, such as pedestrian crossings and town centre bypasses, which have made walking to school safer.

There are believed to be over 100 routes that could be reviewed and opened up so that children who currently take the bus or car to school would be able to walk. The review will start immediately.

Cabinet member in charge of the environment Councillor Rod Menlove said: “With so many pressures on today’s parents, it seems that the humble walk to and from school has been forgotten.

“Driving children to school or placing them on a bus has become the norm due to busier lifestyles and heightened safety concerns. 

“But 25 years is a long time and, even though traffic levels have increased, there has been a great deal of work to ensure that pedestrians can now safely share the highway.

“We believe this review will identify a great number of safe paths and cycle routes in Cheshire East that have previously been overlooked and which would benefit children greatly. It will also discount some which are not safe.

“Rediscovering these routes would mean that parents could either consider walking their child to school themselves or joining, or developing, a walking bus in their area.

“Walking not only provides vital exercise, it also facilitates time to talk to young people about school.

“All schools have their own travel plans and we will now be working closely with them to highlight any walking routes that may become available and how they can be put to good use.”

Leader of Cheshire East Council Councillor Michael Jones said: “It is good that we are reviewing this to ensure that as many children as possible can safely walk to school.

“I would like to reassure parents that child safety will be paramount when considering whether or not a child and their parent can use a particular route. Parents should be aware that routes can become prohibited as well as opened up.”

Cabinet member in charge of health and wellbeing Councillor Janet Clowes said: “I support this whole-heartedly as it fits in with Cheshire East Council’s policy to promote a healthier lifestyle for our young generation.”

Government legislation stipulates that primary school children who live more than two miles from their nearest school are entitled to free transport.  The distance rises to three miles for secondary school children.

The assessment of new or existing routes could mean that some children who currently qualify for free transport because of distance criteria now have a shorter route to school and so lose out on free transport.

It could also mean that some routes never previously assessed are no longer considered to be suitable and some children may now become eligible for transport assistance.

Councillor Menlove added: “We must acknowledge that there are some things that we, as a Council, cannot continue to fund in these challenging economic times.

“Subsidising school transport when there are reasonable alternatives would not be in Council Tax payers’ best interests.

“The assessments will be very thorough and we will be working with local members where necessary to ensure that community concerns are taken into account.

“The schools will play an integral role in ensuring that any routes that are re-opened – and any initiatives to optimise them - are communicated to families.”

Gypsy and Traveller Sites

 

The Leader of Cheshire East Council has signalled a move forward for Gypsy and Traveller sites, saying that planning applications for selected sites could be submitted as early as next year.

Councillor Michael Jones said: “We are committed to finding suitable sites for our Traveller and Gypsy communities, but it must be the right site with the right facilities so that this community can live in harmony.

“We have recently consulted our residents on the Local Plan, which identifies sites for sustainable growth over the next two decades, and sites will ultimately be identified through this process.

“However, there does seem to be a lack of public confidence about where the right sites are, but we would like to reassure residents that we are committed to getting this right first time round.

“With our partners in Cheshire West and Warrington we will be commissioning a fresh Gypsy and Traveller accommodation assessment to ensure that we are basing our approach on up-to-date information about the scale and location of accommodation needs.

“There is discussion on several sites ongoing and we are hopeful that applications will be bought forward early next year.”

Truly Scrumptious Launch Party for St Luke’s New Nantwich Crêperie

Local MP Edward Timpson officially opened St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice’s new Nantwich creperie, ice cream parlour and old fashioned sweet shop on Saturday.

Swirly Whirlys, based at 6 Pillory Street, opened its doors at the weekend, and three and half years after the initial idea was discussed at St Luke’s, the innnovative new store was an overwhelming and tasty hit with local shoppers.

Shoppers enjoyed a mouth-watering array of freshly cooked crepes and explored the fabulous new venue, which is already proving to be a hugely popular addition to the Nantwich high street.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Mr Timpson was on hand to cut the ribbon alongside Town Councillor and life-long St Luke’s supporter Norma Simpson who congratulated the hospice’s staff and volunteers on all their tireless work.

Over £6,200 a day is needed for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice to open its doors every day, and the majority of that money is found through fundraising and donations.

As he opened the store in front of a packed crowd, Mr Timpson said: “I'm sure so many of you here today have a personal connection to St Luke's or know someone who has.

“We're so very fortunate to have St Luke’s right on our doorstep. I have visited the staff and families and the comfort and professional resources given to those in deep need of security and care is inspiring.

“To open a new shop nowadays you have to be creative, and I think this wonderfully playful shop will bring the inner child out in every adult.

“This store is a great addition to our high street and a wonderful opportunity for local people to show their support.”

Three and a half years ago the store was a vision of St Luke’s commercial director Andrea Ladeira, who said on Saturday: “To see this become a reality is an amazing feeling and it would not have been possible without the determination, dedication and sheer hard work of all the St Luke's staff and volunteers.

“Their tireless efforts over the years, and especially during the past months, to make this opening possible reflect the amazing spirit we have at St Luke's.

“I'm delighted to say Swirly Whirlys is now open and it's my pleasure to invite the people of Nantwich to come, enjoy themselves and support the cause. “

To celebrate the launch there was a fun-packed outside broadcast from local radio station RedShift Radio while the Sunshine event chef bear and face painters were on hand to keep youngsters thoroughly entertained.

The new child-focused luxury craft café is a feast for the eyes and the senses. Aimed at children, their parents and grandparents, the historic three-story building encompasses a luxurious traditional sweet shop where children can indulge in a treat to eat, while parents can relax and also enjoy wonderful food. There is a fabulous craft studio incorporating a party area, plus throughout the store you’ll find plenty of wonderful gift ideas.

Stylishly designed with a vintage theme, the store incorporates a crêperie, ice cream parlour, café area, old fashioned sweet shop, craft floor and children’s party area.

To find out more pop along any day for an indulgent treat.

Nantwich councillor Norma Simpson added: “I wish all the staff and volunteers at St Luke's a long, lovely and lucrative future in our historic town.”

CCTV images released following spate of thefts from Co-Ops

Police have issued CCTV images of two men they would like to speak to in connection with a spate of thefts from Co-Ops in the mid and east Cheshire areas.

The offences took place on Wednesday 26 September 2012 and Thursday 27 September 2012.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 427 of 26 September 2012.

Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

Phil the Bin meets talented Junior Recyclers

Enthusiastic Junior Recycling Officers from Cheshire East celebrated the launch of the new ‘Phil the Bin’ activity and information book at their inaugural event held at the Victoria Community Centre in Crewe, with Phil the Bin present in person!

Over eighty people, including 75 children their parents and teachers, participated in activities and workshops, including rag-rugging, and glass painting.

Each child was presented with the new Phil the Bin activity and information book, filled with exciting tips and projects for children to get involved with the 3R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) agenda. They were also given jute rucksacks containing recycled stationery, a badge and a useful 3R’s handbook.

Cheshire East Council is launching the Phil the Bin book in partnership with UPM, who run a recycling processing plant at their Shotton site, following the success of primary school participation across the Borough.

Councillor Rod Menlove, Cabinet Member in charge of environment services, said: “Improving the way we recycle and reduce our waste is incredibly important.

“It not only has a positive effect on the environment but also in the communities we live, as well as making economic sense.

“We’re delighted that so many schools across the borough have actively engaged with us, and Phil the Bin will encourage young children to become our recycling champions of the future.”

Phil the Bin will act as the new face for Cheshire East Council’s Junior Recycling Officers scheme, providing schools with information and activities to spread the 3R’s message to family, friends and the school community.

School Bursar, Mrs Lisa Lee from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Crewe, said: “The Junior Recycling Officers Scheme introduces a new active approach to recycling.

“Last year our Junior Recycling Officers reduced printed paper newsletters to parents by over 29,000 sheets, by changing to e-newsletters. This is just one example of the success of the scheme in schools.”

For further details on the Junior Recycling Officers Scheme or to find out more about Phil the Bin, go to www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/recycling or call Lucinda Hodges on 01270 686684.

Police and Crime Commissioner elections

 

The Police and Crime Commissioner elections are taking place on Thursday, November 15, and residents in Cheshire East are being urged to make sure they don’t miss the chance to have their say.

To be able to vote, you must be on the electoral register.

From October 19, polling cards will be sent to everyone on the electoral register. If you don’t receive one then there is the chance you’re not on the list.

If you are not yet registered to vote – and want to vote in this election –the deadline for receipt of completed applications is October 31. 

For further details of how to register, phone the Cheshire East helpline on: 0300 123 5016 or visit: www.aboutmyvote.co.uk

Councillor Les Gilbert, Cabinet member in charge of corporate policy, said: “Some people think that if you are paying Council Tax you are registered to vote – this isn’t the case.

“I would urge all those eligible to vote to ensure they are on the electoral register so residents can take part in this important election.”

Reaseheath Apple Festival

Reporter Jonathan White

I attended the second day of the 20th Reaseheath Apple Festival weekend (Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th October, http://www.reaseheath.ac.uk/apple-festival/) at Reaseheath College, Nantwich.

This free event featured dozens of different types of apples sourced from around the world on display and the opportunity to taste and buy different varieties of apple. Visitors could also buy or bring their own apples and take part in using the scratcher apple milling machine and press, which form the initial stages of the cider-making process.

Retired Reaseheath lecturer Derek Jones was on hand to identify different apple varieties and Reaseheath lecturer Harry Delaney offered fruit growing advice. There were a variety of flowering plants for sale, along with a cheese tasting table and sale. Numerous information leaflets and display boards advertised the wide variety of courses available at Reaseheath College.

There were also outdoor tours around Reaseheath’s fruit garden to show fruit trees on a variety of root stocks grown under different systems.

Quiz Night

Reporter Jonathan White

Wistaston Memorial Hall and Community Centre 'Annual Hall Quiz' for the Fred Lorimer trophy in the main hall, Church Lane, Wistaston, Crewe on Tuesday 23rd October 2012 starting at 7:30pm. Entry fee is £8 per team of four. Refreshments included. There will be a raffle. For further information please contact: John White, Tel: 01270 - 661484.

New Scam

Cheshire Police are warning businesses about companies that use the force name to secure adverts in publications. These companies use cold calling and pressure selling, as an organisation the force do not employ such companies.

It has come to light that a publishing company is calling businesses in the Congleton area purporting to be calling on behalf of Cheshire Police in order to sell advertising space.

They purport that in buying advertising space in a community magazine the customer is supporting their local constabulary. This is not the case.

The reason why these companies use the Cheshire Police name to entice businesses is purely to generate revenue. The publications the companies produce appear to be in association with the police, ambulance or fire service but actually can include some generic articles publicising the roles of the emergency services.

These companies sell Ad space on the back of Cheshire Police by telling potential advertisers that Cheshire Police take the publication but in fact they just send the publication to stations unsolicited, often they are put straight in the bin. In some cases the companies do not even produce an unofficial publication they just simply take money from businesses on the assertion that they are from a publishing house.

If advertising or sponsorship is undertaken by Cheshire Police the business or individual being approached will be given contact details that can be verified with the Constabulary.

Crewe police release CCTV after mobile phone thefts

 

Crewe Police have released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with a number of thefts of mobiles phones from shops in and around the Crewe area.

The offender goes into shops, waits for the staff to be distracted and then cuts the working phone from the display.

PC Andy Kent said: "There have been four shops in Crewe over the past few months that we know have been targeted and are looking at whether they are connected.

"The latest attempt was in an Orange shop in the town, staff contacted police immediately as well as warning other mobile phone shops.

"We have been patrolling the area and are asking staff to be vigilant for suspicious activity in their shops. Meanwhile we are keen to identify this man in order to progress our enquiries."

Anyone who recognises the man in the CCTV should contact PC Andy Kent on 101 quoting occurrence number CC12286951.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Call for Games Makers

 

Cheshire East Council would like to hear from anyone who volunteered at the recent Olympic and Paralympic games in London.

All Games Makers will be invited to the Cheshire East Sports Awards that are being held on November 29 at Cranage Hall, near Holmes Chapel.

The awards recognise the time and dedication put in by volunteers, coaches, clubs and athletes to develop sport across the Borough.

Games Makers are asked to contact Chris Greenhalgh at: chris.greenhalgh@cheshireeast.gov.uk, or on 01625 373778.

Crewe men sentenced for Shropshire burglary

 

Police today welcomed jail sentences for two burglars who broke into an empty home in north Shropshire stealing a sword and machete.

Jason Anthony Vernon (33), of Timbrell Avenue, Crewe and William Eric Steele (30), of Davenham Crescent, Crewe, were sentenced at Shrewsbury Crown Court yesterday.

Vernon was given a three year sentence and Steele was jailed for 12 months. They admitted burgling an empty cottage in north Shropshire, near Woodseaves, on May 13, stealing a sword and machete.

They were arrested near Market Drayton swimming pool on Phoenix Bank when police officers spotted their vehicle acting suspiciously. Various items were found inside, including the weapons.

Vernon was also dealt with yesterday on three further charges on May 13 − going equipped for theft having gloves, torches, screwdrivers and a stethoscope; possessing a weapon in a public place, namely a sword; and a similar charge involving a machete. He admitted the offences.

Detective Sergeant Andy Chatting, one of the investigating officers, said today: "We are pleased with the sentences imposed. It sends out a clear message that people who break into homes and other property are likely to end up in prison.

"These two offenders had travelled into Shropshire from their Cheshire home area intent on committing crime. They were arrested after being spotted acting suspiciously, thanks to the vigilance of Local Police officers in Market Drayton."

DS Chatting said police in Shropshire were determined to bring burglars to court. "West Mercia Police is currently running Citadel, a force-wide initiative aimed at reducing the number of burglars and increasing detections.

"Tackling burglary, especially when it involves breaking into people′s homes, continues to be one of our top priorities," he added.

Crewe Police appeal for witnesses to inappropriate touching

 

Crewe Police are appealing for witnesses after three women were touched inappropriately on three separate occasions.

On 6 September a 42-year-old woman was walking along Ruskin Road when she was approached by a male who touched her inappropriately.

The same thing happened on 21 September to a 42-year-old woman walking along Ruskin Road and on 5 October in Valley Road to a 37-year-old woman.

All took place at around 6.30pm and all three women had been walking alone when they were approached.

The offender is described as being white, aged between 15-years-old and 25-years-old and wearing black jeans and black trainers.

Anyone with information should contact DC Dave Rowlands on 101. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Memorial stone laid for Royal Engineers

Six Royal Engineers who were blown up in the Second World War have been honoured with a permanent memorial stone.

Members of the Royal Engineers Association, Crewe Branch, serving members of the Armed Forces, the Royal British Legion and Council representatives joined together on Sunday morning for an hour-long memorial service at Alvaston Hall.

A two-minute silence marked the lives of Sergeant Edward Greengrass, Sapper Harold Thompson, Sapper Michael Lambert, Sapper George Lucas, Sapper John Perrins and Sapper Albert Edward Fearon.

The heroes died while defusing the fourth German bomb to fall on fields near Alvaston Hall between Crewe and Nantwich, in 1940, saving many lives.

The nephew of Sapper Fearon, George Horton, 76, was present for the emotional service held.

Mr Horton, who travelled from Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire, said: “I whole-heartedly thank Cheshire East Council for taking the time to track me down, as being present at the service meant so much to me. I am very proud of Uncle Albert and his actions to save the lives of others.”

Cheshire East Council had made an appeal to trace family members of the six men in the eighteen month lead-up to the memorial service.

Mr Horton was traced and found to have served in the Army for 26 years, nine of those as a bomb disposal engineer just like this uncle.

Cheshire East Council Mayor, Councillor George Walton, whose Chaplain led the service, said: “This was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice these men made for their country and is timely with what is happing out in Afghanistan right now.

“No one can truly understand how terrifying their role was and how utterly selfless and brave they had to be and, for that, we pay homage to them.

“Their legacy lives on, generations after they have gone and for that we will always be grateful.

“We are also very grateful to staff at Alvaston Hall who agreed to have the memorial stone built in their beautiful gardens.

“It has been a real privilege to work with the Crewe branch of the Royal Engineers Association to create this memorial.”

Council Leader, Councillor Michael Jones, added: “Cheshire East Council believes the country’s Armed Forces should be supported and remembered for their brave actions to protect the security of this country.

“The idea to build a memorial stone came from our Deputy Mayor, Councillor Dorothy Flude and Councillor Chris Thorley, who were passionate in their quest to remember these fallen men.

“These men represent all that is honourable about our Armed Forces, who carry out an incredibly challenging role.”

According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, Thompson, Lambert, Fearon and Lucas were killed instantly and Sergeant Greengrass died two days later in hospital. Sapper Perrins died on August 18, suggesting he also died later in hospital.

Sgt Greengrass is buried at Wandsworth, London; Sapper Thompson at Hornchurch, London; Sapper Lambert at Kensal Green, London; Sapper Fearon at Newcastle-upon-Tyne ; Sapper Lucas in Manchester and Sapper Perrins at Stand (All Saints) Churchyard in Whitefield Manchester.

The Council was originally given the name John Percival but a member of the public came forward with the correct name of John Perrins. This has been confirmed by Commonwealth War Graves Commission records.

Cheshire East would like anyone who may have any further information regarding these men to contact the Council on 01270 686012.

Launch of viral across Cheshire

An alcohol campaign has been creating intrigue as it launches across Cheshire. The campaign called "Totally Wasted" is the latest initiative being run by Cheshire Police to make young people think about the harm that alcohol can cause.

According to drinkwisenorthwest.org, 1 in 4 teenagers in the North West binge drink. Cheshire Police want to influence young people’s behaviour and the campaign is designed to inform and educate, with messages such as ‘don’t let drink change your behaviour’.

The social media campaign is using upbeat.uk.com, a site for young people, to show two different scenarios. Cheshire based Sophie Yates, 19, Pia Burrow, 17, Amber Ellis, 17 and Charlie Holliday, 19, all have an involvement in the campaign.

After seeing the role advertised on Facebook, Sophie said "I think it’s a really good thing to be involved in because it tells a very strong and important message. Alcohol awareness is an important issue and young people can often be unaware of the dangers of drink"

She added "I very much enjoyed working on the alcohol awareness campaign for Cheshire Police and love getting involved with local projects. I hope the campaign is successful in raising awareness."

Charlie Holliday spoke of her involvement, "I don’t think this will stop people drinking before they go out but it might remind people to pace themselves and not drink quite as much. I’m a student and simply knowing the facts have really made me think about how much I drink and the danger I could be putting myself in. Cheshire Police aren’t saying ‘don’t drink at all but drink responsibly’."

In the run up to Christmas, officers on patrol on the streets of Cheshire’s towns and villages are keen to get across to people how drinking too much can result in a "totally wasted" evening. Alcohol can change your behaviour, and in some people, drinking excessively can make them aggressive and they become violent.

Police officers are called to deal with more and more reported incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour where alcohol is involved. They can all too often take violent and aggressive drunks off the streets who then spend their night in a cell − "wasted night" for the drinker and "waste of police time" as it is preventable. A "wasted life" could result if they end up with a criminal record that will affect the rest of their life.

Cheshire Police want young people to get involved on the social media networks. For more information, please go to www.upbeat.uk.com/totallywasted and read more about our campaign.