Chime watch

14 July 2009

Crime stats could go bell-y up in Mendip thanks to a new initiative being introduced across the district.

Shoppers across the district are being given an unusual weapon in the fight against pick pocketing crime - a pair of silver bells.

Mendip District Council has joined up with Avon and Somerset Police and other crime prevention agencies in the area to warn shoppers of the potential risk of pick pocketing.

The idea behind the bells, which can be attached to a purse, wallet or mobile phone, is that if someone is trying to pick your purse from your bag, you will hear the bells ringing and this will put of any potential thieves.

Mendip District Council's crime reduction officer and police handed out the silver bells at the Westway Centre in Frome last week and will be at the Shepton Mallet Market on Friday, July 17 in the town centre.

Lester Silk, crime reduction officer at Mendip District Council said: "Purse theft has been on the increase in the Mendip area and we hope that the bells will help act as a deterrent to thieves.

"Whilst we hope the bells prove a success in the fight against pick pocketing, it is important to remind people to always be vigilant when out shopping and always know where your personal items are and try not to leave them on view."

Aswell as dishing out the bells, together with the police, Mendip District Council were offering advice to residents on general crime prevention, anti-social behaviour and keeping personal possessions safe.

The initial trial in Frome was perceived as such a success other agencies including Frome Business Against Crime Partnership and Mendip Housing Ltd have ordered their own stock of bells to be handed out.

Mendip's community safety team and the police plan to visit Glastonbury, Street and Wells after Shepton Mallet in a bid to get the whole of Mendip jingling.

Nigel Hewit-Cooper, Mendip District Council's portfolio holder for Neighbourhood services said: "One of our top priorities and one of the public's top priorities is addressing concerns about crime and the fear of crime, despite the low crime statistics that Mendip has.

"This new initiative is just one of the ways that Mendip, along with partners is moving forward and addressing peoples concerns about crime. Our aim is to continue ensuring that the district is a safe place in a bid to enhance Mendip as a place to live."

Last Updated

17 July 2009

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Page last updated on 17 July 2009