Bingham Neighbourhood Watch

 

News and Events

eCrossword winner of £20 prize

Date added: 2 February 2012

Many congratulations, plus the £20 winner’s prize for our eCrossword competition, go to Barrie Jackson of Bingham. The crossword is shown lower down the page at date added 26 November 2011.  Well done Barrie; it was a tough challenge and you produced the only correct entry.

The answers, followed by clues and explanations, are as follows:

1.  Pins.  Trim back to reveal these important numbers (4).  Trim = snip; back = pins.
2. Scam.  This threatens the first small computer access memory (4).  First letters = s.c.a.m (threat)
3. Risk.  Chance some danger is keys left in doors (4).   Chance = risk, found inside words.
4. Vigilance.  Ace living might result from this (9).  Anagram of ace living = vigilance.
5. Id.  Unconscious state of states (2).  Id = unconscious state, and ID = Idaho, state of USA
6. Cell.  Space, say, to flog the Spanish intruder in empty corral (4).  Empty corral = cl; the Spanish = el, intruder = inside; hence cell (space).
7. Offence.  It’s sour, hence first thrown away (7).  Sour = off; first away from hence = ence; so offence.
8. Timer switch.  Play metric whist to get one of these (5,6).  Play (about with) = anagram of metric whist = timer switch.
9. Policemen.   Cold hands follow cut back for these (9).  Cut = lop, back = pol; cold = ice; hands = men.
10.  Curtains.  Assemble car units to deter Burglar Bill, or it’s this (8).   Assemble (rearrange) = anagram of car units = curtains.
11. Crime.  This takes the edge in church (5).  Church = ce; edge = rim; inside ce = crime.

New Beat Manager - PC John Reason

Date added: 10 January 2012

We’re delighted to report that PC 147 John Reason is to be the new Beat Manager for Bingham.  John has been a uniformed police officer for 28 years and previously served at West Bridgford, The Meadows, Clifton and East Leake. He has been the Beat Manager at Cotgrave since 2002, a town that has seen unprecedented reductions in crime and anti social behaviour over the past few years, and he will bring a wealth of experience in tackling crime and disorder to his role as Bingham Beat Manager.  John is very familiar with Bingham, having previously lived here for six years and he intends drawing on his experience and building on the excellent work done by his predecessor, PC John Kneale, to maintain the low levels of crime that the residents of Bingham and the surrounding villages currently experience.  John says, “I’m looking forward to my new role with established colleagues to maintain law and order whilst working closely with the local community, councils and other agencies to further reduce crime and the fear of crime which is currently at a thirty year low in Nottinghamshire.”  John, we wish you a very warm welcome and look forward very much to working with you.

 

New Chairperson - David Mason

Date added: 10 January 2012

We’re delighted to extend a warm welcome to David Mason as our new Chairperson from 1 January 2012 and wish him every possible success in his new role.  David takes over from Gordon Sanders, who will continue to remain very active as a greatly valued member of our scheme and will continue in the role of security equipment organiser.  David reminds us in his welcome message on our About us page, “Ours is a progressive and inclusive scheme which aims to serve all sections of the community.  We are working hard to expand the number of streets covered and are keen to engage young people in our activities. We work very closely with Bingham Police and other key partners in the town. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions and, should you decide to join us, you can be sure of a warm welcome.”  We’re confident that David will enjoy the same success that Gordon had and that he will receive great support from all co-ordinators, scheme members, scheme partners and other stakeholders.  David’s wasted no time in meeting all the scheme officers and our new Beat Officer, PC John Reason.

 

December 2011 crime sheet

Date added: 8 January 2012

The crime sheet for December 2011 (accessed via the  link on our Crime data page) lists 14 offences.  The corresponding numbers in December 2009 and December 2010 were 26 and 20, respectively.  However, never be complacent, and notice there were four burglaries (29% of the total) within this last set of figures.  Note also the targeting of metal.

Report of AGM held on 24 November 2011

Date added: 18 December 2011

36 co-ordinators attended our AGM at the Old Court House on 24 November 2011.  Jonathan Hammond of Hammond Harwood Estate Agency donated £150 to our central funds and also encouraged members to do their quiz to raise money for ChildLine. Our guest speaker, Sue Harris, Chair of Ravenshead NW, gave us a very informative presentation on the structure and working of their scheme, and PC John Kneale spoke about the October and November crime figures and latest crime trends.  Co-ordinators received their scheme Newsletters, before Gordon Sanders explained the arrangements for our stall at Bingham Fair on Friday 2 December.  Presentations were then made to retiring Beat Manager John Kneale for his superb support of Bingham NW for over 10 years, and to Gordon Sanders for his excellent work as Chairperson for the past 4 years.  The meeting appointed its scheme officers for 2012, as follows: Chairperson, David Mason; Vice-Chair, Bob Garland; Secretary, Kay Howells; and Treasurer, Chris Trivett.  Gordon would continue as security officer.  Under AOB we discussed street lighting, co-ordinator introductions, SmartWater sales, and starter packs for new scheme members.  Finally, dates were agreed for our quarterly meetings in 2012. The photo shows our guest speaker, Sue Harris, with Gordon Sanders at the AGM.

Stall at Bingham Fair

Date added: 4 December 2011

Our stall at Bingham Fair on Friday 2 December 2011 was a great success, one of our most successful ever, thanks to the efforts of Gordon and Barbara Sanders, who set up the stall, and to everyone else who contributed in their various ways.  John Perkins led the charge, doing a wonderful job selling the initial rush of tickets and staying until the prizes were all sold out at 6.30pm, ably assisted later by Suzanne Priestley, Cheryl and Terry Sentance, Barrie Jackson and, later, Bob Garland and David and Helen Mason.  John Kneale also lent his police presence on the stall.  We’re especially indebted to Emily Kimber for a wonderfully generous supply of prizes, to everyone else who donated prizes, and to all visitors to the stall, especially those who bought tombola ticket and security items or made personal donations.  Special thanks, too, to Barbara Holland-Leader and Pat Byard, who generously undertook the onerous task of attaching tickets to all the prizes.  Takings from the tombola and sale of security items, together with individual donations, were an impressive £190.  Congratulations Gordon for your organisation and for staying throughout the entire event; we owe you a real debt of gratitude for your unstinting work.  The photo shows Gordon Sanders (left) with Cheryl and Terry Sentance at the stall, watched over by Beat Manager PC John Kneale.

Donation from Hammond Harwood

Date added: 2 December 2011

The Bingham Neighbourhood Watch AGM on 24 November 2011 was a great success on several accounts, not least for yet another generous donation to our funds from local estate agent Hammond Harwood, who presented us with a cheque for £150 representing the completed sales of six Bingham properties sited in Neighbourhood Watch schemes.  Hammond Harwood donates to us £25 for each completed sale, and the money goes towards our administration costs.  The estate agent also supports our work in a range of other ways and is a genuine partner with us.  Jonathan Hammond, in presenting the cheque, also encouraged co-ordinators to tackle and promote the Hammond Harwood ‘They all had Number 1s’ Quiz in aid of the ChildLine charity.  The photo shows Jonathan (left) presenting the cheque for £150 to our Chairperson Gordon Sanders at the Old Court House, Bingham on 24 November 2011.  Thank you Jonathan for your company's excellent contribution towards making Bingham a safer place to live.

Farewell presentation to PC John Kneale

Date added: 28 November 2011

PC John Kneale, our beat manager for the past 11 years, has given superb service to Bingham residents over this time, and has been a great supporter and friend to Bingham Neighbourhood Watch.  He prepared the monthly crime sheets that have appeared on our Crime data page and rarely missed our quarterly co-ordinators’ meetings, where he presented the crime figures and answered questions from co-ordinators with directness and good humour.  He has also supported us in many other ways, including following up on issues raised by co-ordinators, involvement in some of our projects, offering sound guidance and advice on security matters, and such routine yet vital tasks as photocopying material for us.  John will be sorely missed and we wish him and his family every success in whichever venture he now pursues.  As a token of our appreciation, John was presented at our AGM on 24 November 2011 with a framed photograph of Bingham market place – to remind him of his happy years at Bingham - and a set of crystal wine glasses.  The photo shows Chairman Gordon Sanders (left) presenting the framed photograph to John. Good luck John!

Crossword - £20 to be won

Date added: 26 November 2011

It’s some time since we last offered a crossword challenge, so we’ve now put that right.  If you enjoy a crossword and fancy winning yourself £20 then click on crossword to see what’s required and how to submit your answers.  We’ve made it easier by inserting some helpful letters.  The closing date is 1 February 2012.  Good luck!

Newsletter December 2011

Date added: 23 November 2011

Hard copies of our December 2011 Newsletter will be delivered to scheme households in late November or early December.  Additional copies will be freely available in the health centre, the library and at Hammond Harwood Estate agents in the market square.  However, you can also download the Newsletter by clicking here

 

Telephone fraudsters

Date added: 11 November 2011

Telephone fraudsters are at it constantly, by letter, text or telephone calling, trying to separate you from your money; and they’re very plausible – so beware!  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  The scams take many forms: parcel delivery; lottery win; missed calls; you’ve won a prize; line testing; refund of bank charges; etc.  Many try to hook you into calling a premium rate number, which could cost you dearly; others get you to send money up front to pay for admin fees and taxes.  Beware of a company called Tucan Claims, which may cold-call you to speak about refund of bank charges, mis-sold PPI insurance or to advise you that your credit card has been used fraudulently – you might finish up paying an outrageous admin fee of £249.99 plus 10% plus VAT. The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) estimates that 80% of the complaints it has received over mis-sold PPI have come via claims management companies, of which Tucan Claims is one. The FOS constantly reiterates that there is no need for consumers to pay to use such companies as its own service is free, and it will guide people through the process. Some basic precautions on phone scams: don’t return calls to unknown numbers – they’ll ring you back if it’s important; never give out personal and bank details to unsolicited callers; never send money up front for admin costs; never dial a premium rate number (beginning 09) unless you’re absolutely sure how much it’ll cost and you’re willing to pay for it.  Stay vigilant at all times!

Crime levels July - September 2011

Date added: 4 November 2011

Bingham crime levels remained steady during the three-month period July to September 2011, averaging 20 offences per month, equivalent to two crimes every three days; low for a town of nearly 10,000 population.  The main offences were theft (32% of all crimes), damage (19%), burglary (19%), assault (15%) and theft from cars (7%).  A number of the thefts were commercial, i.e. petrol from filling stations and items from shops.  However, there were 10 thefts from domestic premises, involving cycles, garden plants and valuables such as jewellery, purse and handbag.  The message is: take special care over security of cycles and valuables.  Theft of plants is more problematic, and the best advice is vigilance, taking close notice of any stranger ‘admiring’ your garden; take special interest, .note the time and description, and record the registration number of any unfamiliar vehicle nearby.  Which? Gardening provides excellent advice against garden theft; just Google ‘Garden theft which?’ to bring up a superb page on ‘Garden theft’.  Of the burglaries, four were on commercial premises, three were households and three were on sheds.  Do you have a shed alarm?  If not, we normally sell them at £7 each (but just £6 in our current Christmas sale) via your co-ordinator.  Finally, to learn more about crime in your area, visit the Police.uk website at www.police.uk and type in your postcode.

 

Christmas sale

Date added: 3 November 2011

We’re offering scheme members a great one-off opportunity to buy security devices at even larger discounts than before.  Get in while stocks last!  Click here for more details.

Street lighting

Date added: 3 November 2011

Bingham NW, in its response of March 2011 to the County Council on the proposed changes to street lighting, undertook to monitor crime levels following the changes.  At November 2011 we can report that average monthly crime levels for the 5-month period June-October 2011 were almost identical to the corresponding period in 2010.  Burglaries over this period in 2011 were just 2 more than in the same five 5 months in 2010 (19 against 17), while criminal damage incidents fell from 23 to 20.  So the lighting changes have not so far resulted in more darkness-related crime. However, the dark nights are now with us and we shall continue to work closely with the police to monitor crime figures over the winter.

New scheme Partridge Close

Date added: 14 October 2011

The Partridge Close scheme was launched at the Old Court House on Thursday 13 October.  There was an excellent turnout of residents and we congratulate co-ordinator Polly Lunn and her residents for their initiative.  Chairman Gordon Sanders welcomed residents and introduced Sgt Chris Jury and PCSO Sally Charles of the Nottinghamshire Police Safer Neighbourhood team.  Gordon issued the welcome packs and showed a wide range of security devices available to members at discount prices.  Vice-Chairman Bob Garland outlined all the communication systems, with emphasis on our website, the six-monthly Newsletter and the benefits of joining Neighbourhood Alert.  He also explained about SmartWater, with Chris Jury adding further details.  Chris Jury and Sally Charles spoke on several issues, including burglary, car security and domestic security, followed by a Q&A session.  Overall, this was a very informative and successful meeting, and we wish Polly and all residents every possible success with their scheme. The photo shows, from left to right, Gordon Sanders, Sgt Chris Jury, co-ordinator Polly Lunn and PCSO Sally Charles.

Recent burglaries

Date added: 26 September 2011

The police have advised us via the Neighbourhood Alert system of several burglaries in the Bingham and South Rushcliffe area last week. Their advice is:

• Ensure that doors and windows are locked even when you are at home
• Use timer switches to come on at your property at different times especially now that the nights are drawing in
• Keep valuables such as wallets, purses, mobile phones, handbags and car keys out of sight and take them to the bedroom with you at bedtime
• Close curtains at dusk to prevent others seeing your valuables
• If you have an alarm make sure you use it. If you don’t have one consider getting one. If you find that they are too costly consider buying a ‘dummy’ box as a cheaper alternative.

Remember, you can elect to receive your own free Neighbourhood Alerts by going to www.rushcliffecommunity.co.uk and joining.

 

AGM guest speaker

Date added: 25 September 2011

Our AGM is to be held on Thursday 24 November at 7.30pm at The Old Court House, Bingham, when our visiting speaker will be Sue Harris, Chairperson of Ravenshead Neighbourhood Watch.  The Ravenshead scheme is similar in size though different in nature from our scheme, and it will be interesting to learn how they operate.  Our officers for the year 1 Jan – 31 Dec 2012 will be appointed at this meeting and we anticipate another excellent turnout, so please come along to support our guest speaker and vote for your officers.

Report of co-ordinators' meeting of 8 September 2011

Date added: 17 September 2011

Thirty co-ordinators attended our quarterly meeting on Thursday 8 September 2011, at the Old Court House, chaired by Gordon Sanders, who welcomed Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Phil Hallam as guest speaker. Phil outlined the changes resulting from severe budget constraints, involving fewer officers and closure of several police stations, including Bingham.  Our own Beat Manager John Kneale would be retiring in December, though the PCSOs would be retained and John would be replaced.  Phil reported some very favourable crime figures for Rushcliffe, showing reductions against the previous year in house burglary, robbery and vehicle crime, with figures for all crimes showing a fall of 21 per cent from the previous year.  He reminded us that 75 percent of burglaries are preventable.  Current trends included thefts of metal and petrol.  Phil also described measures being taken to combat ASB.  He praised the work and success of Bingham Neighbourhood Watch in helping to make Bingham a safer place to live.  The Q & A session covered such issues as contacting the police, crime sheets, street lighting, speeding and police presence on market days.  Phil was warmly thanked for his detailed report.  Following the regular raffle, which raised £22 towards admin costs, three co-ordinators, Bob Garland, Rob James and Terry Sentance introduced themselves and outlined their particular schemes.  Members learned more about our initiatives in Junior Neighbourhood Watch and the work done in June 2011 with 180 pupils from the Carnarvon and Robert Miles schools.  Gordon Sanders described our plans for the Bingham Christmas Fair and invited volunteers to help on the stall and donate prizes for the tombola.  The nature of the support we receive from Hammond Harwood was explained to members.  Under AOB, we dealt with such matters as the sale of security items, future chairperson, guest speaker for the AGM in November, and how it was possible to access crime figures through the Police.uk website at www.police.uk. The date of the next meeting was confirmed as Thursday 24 November 2011 at 7.30pm at the Old Court House, Bingham, and the meeting closed at 8.55pm.

 

Police.uk website - crime data

Date added: 1 September 2011

The Police.uk website provides bags of helpful information about crime and policing in our area.  The information is updated on a monthly basis, and previous months’ crime and disorder information is also available.  Visit the website at www.police.uk and enter your postcode. The site allows you to see the number of crimes and where they occurred.

British Crime Survey - domestic burglary

Date added: 16 July 2011

The British Crime Survey, a reliable indicator of crime trends, has recently reported further increases in crime in England and Wales including a 14% rise in domestic burglary and an increase in the category of "other theft" driven by increases in crimes such as theft of unattended property including theft from gardens.  Please, therefore, take every precaution not to be a burglary victim.  Always set your burglar arm when out or overnight, keep windows and doors locked, and use timer switches for your lights, TV and radio to appear in when you’re out.  If you see anyone eyeing your garden ornaments or plants, whether from a vehicle or on foot, or otherwise acting suspiciously near your property, then note the date and time and take a detailed description of the person(s).  If a vehicle is involved, make sure you record its registration number and other details such as make, colour and other markings. Such simple precautions might lead to an arrest and recovery of your property.

 

Junior Neighbourhood Watch exercises

Date added: 24 June 2011

A small team of Bingham co-ordinators, working closely with PCSO Richard Bombroffe, has recently completed three intensive afternoons of security education involving almost 180 Year 5 and Year 6 pupils of the Carnarvon and Robert Miles Schools in Bingham.  The focus was on observation and description of a stranger, security coding of valuables, finger printing, and bicycle coding.  In addition to the classroom exercises, the youngsters took home a multi-choice quiz to complete with parental involvement, comprising a range of safety and security questions.  The pupils were actively involved in small group work on stranger description, UV coding, finger printing and crime scene analysis.  Overall, they participated enthusiastically, asked many questions and appeared to find it an enjoyable and worthwhile experience.  Thanks are due to the two head teachers and their staff for their participation in the events, and to Richard Bombroffe and the co-ordinators, Alan Cotton, Bron Downing, Bob Garland and Gordon Sanders.  The two 'strangers', Jack Brown and Olive Garland, played an important role and also helped to facilitate the other activities.  Junior Neighbourhood Watch activities are crucial to community safety and development, and we believe this work makes an important contribution to security awareness and responsible citizenship. The pictures show: (top) Richard Bombroffe introducing the 'theft' project with Bron Downing looking on; (centre) Bron facilitating a group involved in evidence analysis; (bottom) Gordon Sanders overseeing a further group of 'detectives'.

Stall at Bingham Fair

Date added: 13 June 2011

Our stall at Bingham Fair on Saturday 11 June 2011 was its usual very successful event and meant a full day for our enthusiastic ‘A’ team, led by Jane Best and Gordon Sanders.  Jane did all the ticketing for the tombola prizes and worked the stand with Gordon from 8.00am until 3.30pm, about an hour after the tickets were sold out.  Our takings were a superb £145, based on ticket pricing of 20p per ticket or 5 for £1.  Thanks are due also to all our other helpers, including Barbara Holland-Leader, Pat Byard, Cheryl Sentance, Denise Howes, John Perkins and Elsie Murray.  Gordon reports that Jane was ‘our star of the day!’  We extend very warm thanks and appreciation to all those local businesses, co-ordinators and other people who generously donated the range of fantastic prizes and to all those who bought tickets and attended the stall.  The prizes made a splendid display.  To demonstrate our community support, we gave away some 250 purse bells to people who visited the stall, these being a simple but effective device to dissuade would-be purse snatchers.  We were pleased to welcome Cllr Gordon Moore, Mayor of Rushcliffe, who praised our scheme and took away several purse bells to show others.  Thanks again to everyone who contributed towards the event; your support is warmly appreciated and ensured a very worthwhile occasion. The picture shows Cheryl Sentance and Denise Howes selling tombola tickets and giving visitors a warm welcome.

Launch of new scheme

Date added: 28 May 2011

The new Swallow Drive (lower part) and Woodpecker Close scheme was launched at the Old Court House on Friday 27 May 2011 by Chairman Gordon Sanders and Vice-Chairman Bob Garland. We congratulate new co-ordinator Rob James for his initiative in starting this scheme comprising 38 properties. Gordon issued the launch packs and gave an outline of the Bingham scheme, with special reference to such matters as scheme summary, list of key contacts, window stickers, Data Link, and various types of alarms such as shed alarms, purse alarms and personal attack alarms. Bob outlined all the communication systems such as website, newsletters and Butter Cross entries. Members were strongly encouraged to join Neighbourhood Alert and invest in SmartWater. We wish Rob and his members every possible success.

 

Sale of security devices

Date added: 26 May 2011

We sell a range of security devices to scheme members at discount prices.  The following popular items are typical: mini key-ring alarm with torch £3.50; mini door/window contact alarm £3.00; shed alarm £7.00; squeeze personal attack alarm £5.00; and purse alarm £5.00.  To buy any of these, contact your co-ordinator. If you're not sure of your co-ordinator's details, ring 838871.

SmartWater

Date added: 24 March 2011

We have just replenished our stock of SmartWater security marking fluid, so if you need a vial please email us at mail@bingham-watch.com to advise your name and contact details, and how many kits you require.  We sell the kits at £10 each, a discount of 44 per cent on the purchase price of £18.

Street lighting response to county

Date added: 22 March 2011

With reference to the item below, dated 4 March 2011, the sub-group has now responded to the County with our observations on the draft street lighting proposals for Bingham.  Rather than publish the letter in full, we offer the following synopsis of our response:

“Bingham Neighbourhood Watch, though disappointed at the prospect of reduced lighting levels in the town, recognises that there are significant cost and environmental pressures on the County Council.  Rather than offer a blanket objection to the draft proposals, which we believe would have been counter-productive and simply overlooked, we have offered detailed comments, and sought responses, on particular potential hazards.  Our observations relate to such issues as: consistent lighting levels along main routes through the town; the need to preserve lighting at all major road junctions; roads with inadequate pavements; lighting levels at warden attended residences for senior citizens; and adequate consideration of lighting requirements in car parks and key pedestrian thoroughfares.  Importantly, however, in relation to the proposed six month review, we have advised the County Council that Bingham Neighbourhood Watch is committed to its own ongoing monitoring of crime and safety, working in close consultation with our Neighbourhood Policing team.  Following the switch-off, we shall communicate any concerns or suggestions as they may arise.”

 

Crimestoppers performance to end of February 2011

Date added: 10 March 2011

Click here to see the Crimestoppers performance between January and the end of February 2011.

Street lighting proposals

Date added: 4 March 2011

In order to save energy and costs, Nottinghamshire County Council is proposing to change the pattern of street lighting across the county, aimed at saving over 25% of energy usage.  For Bingham the proposal is to switch off all lights in many - though not all - residential streets between midnight and 5.30am.  Some main road lighting will remain unchanged, though significant stretches of main roads will also be unlit between midnight and 5.30am.  The detailed draft proposals and the County’s reasoning can be downloaded via the County Council’s website at www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/streetlightingenergysaving. Bingham Neighbourhood Watch has been invited to comment on these proposals and co-ordinators, at their meeting on 3 March 2011, appointed a sub-group of co-ordinators to meet and respond by the closing date of 11 April 2011.  Once the proposals have been implemented, monitoring will be carried out to examine the effects on crime figures, anti-social activity and road traffic accidents.  If any resident of the Bingham Neighbourhood Watch scheme wishes to comment, you are invited to send your observations, without delay, to mail@bingham-watch.com, in order that the sub-group can take into account your views in its deliberations.  The group will be meeting very shortly, so please don’t delay.  Your views need to be with us by 15 March. 

 

Crimestoppers newsletter

Date added: 18 February 2011

Click here to see a recent newsletter from Crimestoppers. It carries information about Crimestoppers Property Protector.

New scheme launch

Date added: 10 February 2011

The new Belvoir Vale Grove scheme will be launched at The Old Court House on Friday 18 February at 7.00pm for 7.30pm start.  Congratulations to co-ordinator David Hall for his initiative in getting this scheme up and running.  We’ll report later and more fully on the launch event itself.

Local crime and policing website

Date added: 6 February 2011

Visit www.police.uk to see the local crime and policing website.  Key in your post code and click ‘Search’.  This brings up the ‘Overview’ showing our local policing team of PC John Kneale and PCSO Richard Bombroffe.  Click on the ‘Crime maps’ tab at the top and this will show crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in our area.  By clicking on the crime types listed, e.g., Burglary, Anti-social behaviour, Robbery, etc, you will see where the crimes occurred.  Adjust the zoom and panning controls to locate the streets in more detail.  Click on the ‘Neighbourhood’ tab to see that the level of crime and ASB in our area is average. Click on the 'Information and advice' tab to see what you can do to protect yourself from crime.

Crime sheet for January 2011

Date added: 3 February 2011

The January 2011 police crime sheet is now on the site.  Go to our Crime data page and click on the crime sheet link at the top of the page.

Season's Greetings

Date added: 16 December 2010

We extend warm Season’s Greetings to all our website visitors, whether from Bingham, Nottinghamshire, the wider UK, or those of you from countries such as Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Russia and other nations who regularly visit our site.  We wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy, peaceful and crime free 2011.  If you enjoy visiting the site please tell your family, friends and associates, and encourage them to view the site.  We always welcome feedback on the site and if you have any observations or suggestions for improvement please contact us by email at mail@bingham-watch.com  Thank you again for your interest in our work.  With best wishes from Bingham Neighbourhood Watch.

Summary of AGM 25 November 2010

Date added: 10 December 2010

There was an excellent turnout at our AGM on 25 November 2010, when our guest speaker was Marion Lewis OBE, former Chair of the national Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network.  Jonathan Hammond of Hammond Harwood Estate Agents was also present, as was Liam Kennedy of the Bingham Advertiser.  In a stimulating and informative address, Marion Lewis outlined the benefits of NW and spoke about future developments and the need to involve more young people through their social media such as Facebook, Twitter, e-mail, etc.  Marion spoke about her role as a community volunteer, the forthcoming launch of the new national NW website, government recognition of NW, and partnerships with the police and other organisations.  She stressed the value of Neighbourhood Alert and encouraged everyone to join their local scheme.  Additionally, she stressed the amount of NW and security material that was available to download from the national website, and she outlined the growth in Junior NW.  Marion was warmly applauded for her presentation.  PC John Kneale spoke about the October 2010 crime sheet and urged members never to leave belongings on show in their car.  He warned about doorstep callers and showed a copy of the pedlar’s certificate that any legitimate seller should display to the householder.  Jonathan Hammond explained how Hammond Harwood sponsor Bingham NW and other local organisations, presented Chairman Gordon Sanders with a cheque for £125 representing five completed house sales on NW streets, and distributed copies of a page from their forthcoming newsletter showing the photo of an earlier presentation to NW.  Gordon Sanders explained the arrangements for the Christmas Fair and Christmas Tree Festival, and thanked all the volunteers.  Copies of the December Newsletter were given to co-ordinators.  The Chairman and Treasurer presented their annual reports, and the existing officers were re-elected for 2011.  A small R&D team was appointed to stimulate new ideas and help us to shape our future development.  The dates for next year’s meetings were agreed as follows: 3 March, 9 June, 8 September and 24 November.  Gordon thanked everyone for their attendance and the meeting closed at 9.20pm. The photo shows Marion Lewis addressing the meeting on 25 November 2010.

 

Leave your contact details

Date added: 3 December 2010

When going away and leaving your home unoccupied, please always leave your contact details with at least two close neighbours.  We’ve had a recent incident in Bingham where an unoccupied home was burgled and the police were unable to contact the victim because the person had apparently not left contact details with anyone close by.  Also, as a deterrent to potential burglars, please follow the rule, "Look in when out”, by using timer switches on lights, TV, etc.  If neighbours tell you they’re going away, please remind them to leave you contact details in the event of burglary or any other incident that might affect their property. Thank you.

Donation from local estate agent

Date added: 26 November 2010

We’re greatly indebted to Jonathan Hammond of Hammond Harwood Estate Agents who, at our AGM on 25 November 2010, generously donated a cheque for £125 towards our scheme.  Hammond Harwood kindly sponsor us by donating £25 for every completed sale of a property within a Bingham Neighbourhood Watch scheme.  The photo shows Jonathan, left, presenting the cheque to Gordon Sanders, Chairman, in the presence of 50 co-ordinators.

Special guest speaker at AGM 25 November 2010

Date added: 27 September 2010

Our AGM on Thursday 25 November 2010 promises to be an interesting meeting and we look forward to a high turnout from co-ordinators. Please note the date in your diary now. We have a special guest speaker, Marion Lewis OBE, who is Chair of the country-wide Neighbourhood & Home Watch.  Marion is based in Market Harborough and was awarded the OBE for her work over 24 years for Neighbourhood Watch. She has helped to raise over £100,000 to fund various community projects. Jonathan Hammond of Hammond Harwood Estate Agents, a major sponsor and strong supporter of our scheme, will also be coming.  Jonathon has made regular donations to us for sales of residential property in our scheme.  Gordon Sanders and our committee would greatly appreciate a high turnout for these guests.  Thank you.

Bingham Virtual (Online) scheme

Date added: 22 August 2010

33 members have so far signed up to the Bingham Virtual Scheme, which is free and allows you to focus on the crime statistics for the Bingham area in various formats to suit yourself (e.g. last months’ figures as a 3D bar chart; the whole year as a 3D pie chart; or the last 14 days as a summary, etc).  It allows you the freedom to interrogate the crime patterns on any time scale you choose and in whatever format you wish.  You can see the modus operandi of individual crimes, report information back to the police and engage in scheme discussions.  And it also lets you see the crime Alerts that have been sent out previously. The more Bingham residents who sign up to the scheme the stronger becomes our collective awareness and security as our network becomes extended and more informed.  So we urge Bingham residents to join – and you don’t have to be in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme to join.  To remind you how to join:

1. Go to www.rushcliffecommunity.co.uk
2. Choose your own Username and Password
3. Type these in and ‘Join’
4. Once you have joined, email mail@bingham-watch.com with your name and phone number, saying you’d like to join the Bingham Virtual Scheme.
5. We will then invite you to join.

We look forward to welcoming you.

What Neighbourhood Watch does

Date added: 22 July 2010

Some people who have yet to join Neighbourhood Watch (NW) are not totally clear about what NW does.  Click here to learn more about it.

Main factors that deter burglars

Date added: 14 July 2010

Main factors deterring domestic burglars
(based on Home Office research provided by burglars themselves)

Presence of alarms outside property 84%
Belief that house is occupied 84%*
Presence of CCTV/camera near property 82%
Apparent strength of doors/window locks 55%
Evidence of membership of Neighbourhood Watch or similar 29%
Property marking campaigns 25%
Poster campaigns 18%

* Hence the police advice: Look in when out.

Streets in membership

Date added: 7 July 2010

Our Streets page shows the list of streets in membership.  However, we have now also listed our 85 streets on a single side of A4.  Click here to see the list.

Beat the burglar - teaser

Date added: 1 July 2010

Try our little teaser to help beat the burglar.  Click here

Neighbourhood Alert - join your Bingham Scheme

Date added: 26 June 2010

If you are a Bingham resident and have registered for the Neighbourhood Alert system by visiting www.rushcliffecommunity.co.uk, then you could be eligible to join the Bingham Neighbourhood Watch Virtual (Online) Scheme, which focuses on crime statistics and other issues relating specifically to the local Bingham area.  You do not need to live in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme to benefit from this service, though we hope you might be persuaded to join sometime in the future.  If interested in joining the Bingham Virtual Scheme, please email mail@bingham-watch.com and give us your name, address and phone number.  We’ll then get back to you very quickly.  More information is shown below in the entry dated 25 May 2010.  We look forward to hearing from you.

SmartWater - new stock

Date added: 16 June 2010

Having previously sold over 350 SmartWater kits, we have recently replenished our stock and are continuing to sell them to Bingham residents at the discounted price of £10 each, on delivery.  Anyone wanting a vial should contact us by email at
mail@bingham-watch.com giving the following information:

• Your name
• Address
• Tel no
• No of vials required.

We will then get back to you within a day or two.  Please don’t miss this opportunity to protect your property.

 

Brain Teaser 2 answers

Date added: 12 June 2010

The June newsletter (see 3 June 2010 below) included Brain Teaser 2.  The answers to the 5 street names are:  1.  Walkers Close (anagram);   2.  Crow Court (Russell Crowe, nabbed = caught);  3.  Langar Road (cargo = load, rag ran = anagram);  4.  Cogley Lane  (leer = ogle, confines of conservatory = cy, hence Cogley; Venus = planet, without ends = lane). 5 out of 5?

New Neighbourhood Alert website

Date added: 25 May 2010

Rushcliffe residents can now access a new warning system, called Neighbourhood Alert, about local crime, and can now contribute actively towards making their community safer by using their own PCs on a new web-based crime alert system.  The new website, provided by Nottinghamshire Police, allows members to supply information to the police about suspicious activities and to discuss local issues online.  The site allows you to access crime statistics, report information, receive alerts and to start a virtual scheme.  The service is free of charge to recipients.  To access the site and register, visit www.rushcliffecommunity.co.uk

June 2010 Newsletter

Date added: 13 May 2010

Watch out for our new format June Newsletter, which will go to member households in mid-late June.  It carries articles on Junior Neighbourhood Watch, shed burglary, new schemes, end of Ringmaster, what number to call in an emergency, bogus callers, holiday advice, Bingham crime patterns, visit to police control centre, and two brain teasers for you to try.  The Newsletter will also be posted on this site.

Bingham burglaries

Date added: 12 May 2010

Bingham has suffered some recent burglaries in early May, so we ask all residents to stay vigilant and protect their property as best they can.  Please always lock your doors and windows and try to look in when out.  Ideally, install a burglar alarm and use timer switches on your lights and TV or radio.  There is no excuse for permitting a ‘walk-in’ burglary, where the thief enters through an open door or window, and yet this type of crime happens all too often.  Complacency is your biggest enemy, so don’t give the criminals an easy ride.

Use of force against intruders

Date added: 23 April 2010

“It’s a rare and frightening prospect to be confronted by an intruder in your own home”.  This is a quote from the Joint Public Statement from the Crown Prosecution Service and the Association of Chief Police Officers.  Visit the following link to help gain greater clarification about ‘reasonable force’, being attacked, retaliation and how the police and CPS might treat you.
http://www.cps.gov.uk/publications/prosecution/householders.html

Proposed re-launch of NW in Nottinghamshire

Date added: 20 April 2010

Nottinghamshire Police is backing a major re-launch of Neighbourhood Watch in the County; it needs to be fresh and innovative. The event will be held in the Assembly Rooms at County Hall, West Bridgford commencing at 10.30am on Saturday 22 May 2010. Admission is free, so please come along as we need to hear your views.  Note: if you are a Bingham co-ordinator or resident of Bingham, and intending to go, it would be greatly appreciated if you would kindly contact our Chairman Gordon Sanders on 838365 or email us at mail@bingham-watch.com so that we have a feel for the level of interest from our town.  Thank you.  For more information see the Nottinghamshire Police website.

Burglary 10 Quiz

Date added: 20 April 2010

Fancy your chances on burglary statistics?  Then have a go at our Burglary 10 Quiz.  No prizes on offer this time, however!  If you enjoy the quiz, all we ask is that you tell your friends about it and give them our website address.  Thank you. Click here for the quiz.

Lock up to beat the burglar

Date added: 19 April 2010

Well over a quarter (28 per cent) of domestic burglaries in our area are ‘walk-in’, where householders have left doors and/or windows unlocked.  In a recent case in Bingham burglars entered a house, walked through to the kitchen, picked up car keys and stole the car – while the owners were at home!  The police have asked us to include this press release on our site, which provides more information.  Hopefully, no NW residents will be caught out this way!

 

Summary of Bingham Neighbourhood Watch

Date added: 7 April 2010

Visitors to the site who might welcome a brief one-page summary of the scale, structure, communication systems, projects and success of our scheme should click here

Carnarvon Primary School Project 17 March 2010

Date added: 18 March 2010

A team of Bingham co-ordinators has been working with members of Nottinghamshire police and staff of Carnarvon Primary School, Bingham, to design and deliver an innovative project for the pupils.  The project took place on 17 March 2010.  It introduced the concept of Neighbourhood Watch and involved the pupils in 4 key activities: describing a stranger; coding of small valuables; finger printing; and bicycle coding.  63 Year 5 pupils took part and thoroughly enjoyed the session.  The children were each presented with a goody bag at the end day, which included a range of small items and, crucially, a questionnaire involving 16 multiple-choice questions to test their – and their parents’ – knowledge of security issues.  Pupils were given a week to complete and return their questionnaires, which will be marked and returned to them after the Easter holiday.  A detailed evaluation of the project will take place in April.  Grateful thanks are offered to Head Teacher, Jonathan Cunliffe, and to co-ordinators Alan Cotton, Bron Downing, Bob Garland, Barrie Phillips and Gordon Sanders; and also to PCSOs Matt Adcock, Richard Bombroffe and Sally Charles, together with Neighbourhood Watch Support Worker, Wendy Morris, who were all involved in the design and delivery of the project.  Class teachers Vanessa Andreoli and Richard Hall contributed valuably to the exercises and School Secretary Kay Howells gave strong administrative support.  This was a strong team effort, which made a major contribution towards the pupils’ understanding of their own safety and security.  We shall report further after the full evaluation. The upper picture shows Wendy Morris leading an exercise on coding and finger printing, while the lower photo shows Gordon Sanders demonstrating bicycle coding.

Distraction burglary poster

Date added: 11 March 2010

You may be aware Operation Liberal is a nationwide campaign to reduce distraction burglary.  In the South Notts Police Division there have been 50 such offences reported in the past 12 months.  Whilst this is an extremely low rate of offence, just a single victim of this type of crime is one too many.  The low rate of reported offences would indicate that most people are aware of the precautions they need to take to avoid becoming a victim of this type of crime.  However, to maintain awareness and avoid complacency, the police have suggested you look at this poster.  Further advice on crime reduction can be obtained from the South Notts Police Division Crime Reduction Managers; just ring 0300 300 99 99 and ask to be put through to your local Crime Reduction Manger.

Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network

Date added: 17 February 2010

You’re strongly advised to visit The Neighbourhood and Home Watch Network website at www.mynhw.co.uk to see their Latest News Headlines, News, Events, Documents, Training Kits, Crime Prevention and other relevant information.  The site carries a wealth of useful information for Neighbourhood Watch members.

Road Quiz 2 - Results

Date amended: 24 February 2010

We offer warm thanks and admiration to the six stalwarts who submitted entries to our Road Quiz 2 competition.  It was a stiff test requiring tenacity and a nimble mind.  All six entrants provided correct results and the winner’s name was drawn independently by a member of the Bingham Library staff.  The winner, who takes the £20 prize, was Michael Hammond, and correct entries were also received from Lynne Barnett, D Edwards, Ann Falconer, Jonathan Hammond and Mrs J Marsh.  Many congratulations to all of you and we hope you enjoyed the challenge.  Click here to see the clues, answers and explanations. The photo shows winner Michael Hammond (centre) being presented with his prize by Chairman Gordon Sanders (left), watched by Vice-Chairman and quizmaster Bob Garland (right).

Crimestoppers presentation

Date added: 27 November 2009

Co-ordinators, at their AGM on 26 November, received an excellent, entertaining presentation on the work of Crimestoppers from Sarah Smithurst, Crimestoppers Co-ordinator for Nottinghamshire.  Sarah explained the origins and history of Crimestoppers – a charity – it’s annual running costs, the large amount of drugs taken off the streets through its work, and outlined the wide range of offences that are reported through the Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111. She also explained how the anonymity of callers is safeguarded.  Her talk was very entertaining and informative, and was widely applauded.  We strongly recommend you call this number in absolute confidence if you have any information or suspicions about local crimes or criminals in Bingham.

Home security website

Date added: 9 November 2009

There’s an interesting website you might like to visit for useful advice on a range of home security issues, including burglary prevention, home alarm systems and home security basics.  You can also register for a free monthly newsletter.  The site also carries some quizzes on crime knowledge, including: Crime knowledge quiz, Are you a security savvy householder? How responsible a neighbour are you? How street smart are you?  Visit www.securedhome.co.uk to take a look.  Bet you can’t get all the answers right!

Burglary poster

Date added: 14 October 2009

With the dark nights approaching, the police have issued this poster on burglary avoidance.
To see the full size image, click here

 

 

 

 

Crimestoppers in Bingham 26 November 2009

Date added: 12 October 2009

We’re delighted that Sarah Smithurst, Crimestoppers coordinator for Nottinghamshire, will address our next co-ordinators’ meeting on Thursday 26 November 2009.  Sarah will outline the work of Crimestoppers and provide some impressive statistics on its effectiveness, e.g. “222 criminals were arrested and charged in Nottinghamshire last year as a result of information Crimestoppers received.”   We urge Bingham residents to call Crimestoppers if they have any information about local criminals – the system guarantees anonymity to anyone who passes on information, and you might even qualify for a reward.  You will not be asked for your name; your call will not be recorded; it will not be traced; you will not have to make a statement; and you will not appear in court.   For more details, visit their website at http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ Click on the "In your area" tab for Nottinghamshire.

Road Quiz answers

Date added: 2 September 2009

We’re grateful to and congratulate everyone who submitted entries to our Road Quiz, which was quite challenging.  The winners’ names and those of others who submitted correct entries will appear shortly.  Meanwhile the answers and explanations can be seen by clicking here

Protect your bike with Datatag

Date added: 19 June 2009

See how to protect your cycle with the Datatag security system by clicking here

Nottinghamshire Policing Plan 2009/12

Date added: 10 April 2009

Want to know what the police will be doing over the next three years?  Want the chance to influence this?  Here’s your opportunity!  The draft Nottinghamshire Policing Plan for 2009 – 2012 is now available.  Click on the police logo link on the lower LH corner of this page to bring up the Nottinghamshire Police website and then click on ‘Police Plan – tell us what you think’.  You can read the document and provide feedback. 

neighbourhoodwatch.net

Date added: 17 March 2009

If you’d like to catch up on the national Neighbourhood Watch scene, visit the neighbourhoodwatch.net website.  The ‘features’ page carries items on garden security, police phone numbers, group home pages (there’s a reference here to Bingham), ID theft and crime review.  You might enjoy the discussions on the ‘forums’ page.  The ‘resources’ page is particularly useful if you’re looking for information/advice on a wide range of security issues.  On the top LH corner of any of these pages, you might like to key in ‘Bingham’ and then click ‘Search this site’.

Free Data Link kit - get yours now

Date added: 15 March 2009

Data Link is a free, voluntary scheme available to anyone living at home, who might be reassured to know that essential information about you would be readily available to the Emergency Services should you have an accident or sudden illness.  The scheme involves placing crucial information about yourself – name, relevant illnesses, allergies, medication and contact addresses – in a place that the emergency services will go to – your fridge.  The information is recorded on a form, placed inside a small container and stored in your fridge.  Data Link stickers are attached to the container, on the fridge door and on the inside of your front door, so that the emergency services have vital information about you, which could ensure rapid treatment in an emergency and even save your life.  Contact your co-ordinator to order your free kit. If you don’t know your co-ordinator, ring 838871.

Crime mapping for Bingham East and West

Date added: 2 January 2009

Crime mapping is a police facility that allows you to see crime statistics at individual beat levels for different areas of Nottinghamshire, and beyond.  You can see crime statistics and trends in Bingham for 5 categories of offence. To access the details:
Click in the Police Badge logo on the bottom left navigation bar of our website
This brings up the the Nottinghamshire Police website
Click on ‘Crime Mapping’ link on the Nottinghamshire Police website
Click to access the crime mapping site
Type ‘Bingham’ in the ‘Find an area’ box
By clicking on the circle you can select either Bingham East or Bingham West
By selecting the ‘Crime types’ tab you can examine Burglary, Robbery, Vehicle crime, Violence or Anti-social behaviour, and can compare the 2007 and 2008 figures.
Typically, you can see that burglary has decreased by 75% in Bingham East between 2007 and 2008.
We hope you will find this a useful facility.

Working to reduce crime and build a safer community