Focus Team Councillors fund new police electric bikes

Have you seen the local police out and about on the new electric bikes, funded by Yate councillors Ruth Davis John Gawn and Ben Nutland, from MAF money.

These are already in use, helping the police get about faster, and get to places police cars can't. The police say they are great. 

Thanks Ruth, John and Ben.

(picture, Ruth, John and Ben outside the South Glos Offices with the bikes and the police who are using them.)

Chance to question the Chief Constable

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens is inviting you to submit your questions on policing ahead of a Facebook Live chat with Chief Constable Andy Marsh Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) next week.

Please submit your questions by tweeting the PCC at @AandSPCC or by sending the PCC a Facebook message via her page. The Facebook Live session is at 2.30pm on Tuesday 11 August and will be available at the FB page and the PCC’s website.

Brimsham and Ladden Gardens

Watch out - there has been a spate of attempted burglaries and car break ins around the new development. The police are running an operation to stamp it out - which is why they are signs up around the area. Let's work together to prevent it - lock sheds, garages and houses.

Message from our local community policemen

Message from our local police

"Please could you encourage anyone reporting to you any breach of Covid-19 restrictions to contact the Police on 101 or via the online reporting form below which has now been set up. Each beat team is monitoring the number and locations of breaches in their areas to assist with their patrol plans.

The Yate Team are currently attending  Lilliput Park and Peg Hill Skate park several times throughout the shift when on duty.

Please share the above

https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report/breach-of-covid-19-restrictions/"

We want to add thanks to our local beat police officers who are putting themselves at risk of the virus by going out talking to people to try to stop dangerous behaviour, but also helping people get out and about. Having local officers who know our area is really good in this situation.

TONIGHT - meet the police

With serious assaults, late night high speed car racing, vandalism a lot of residents have been raising issues about policing. YOU can raise your concerns directly with the police at the Yate Dodington Community Engagement Forum . TONIGHT

on 11 March from 7 - 9pm at Yate Parish Hall on Station Road Yate.

ANYONE can attend, no need to register in advance.

Your Councillors will be there as well as the police, so it is a good place to sort out what can be done to tackle the problems we are facing locally.  You can also find out more about the Town Council Free Graffiti Removal service there.

(It's the middle one of the three community buildings on the south side of Station Road just before Eggshill Lane/ the small Tesco).

You can find out what the police think the local crimes are by looking at their crime map at:
https://www.police.uk/avon-and-somerset/CN207/
If it's not there, then someone has not reported it.
And the same site tells you what their current priorities are for Yate and Dodington - these change as a  direct result of the Community Engagement Forum.

Come and tell the police about current problems 11 March 7pm

With serious assaults, late night high speed car racing, vandalism a lot of residents have been raising issues about policing. YOU can raise your concerns directly with the police at the Yate Dodington Community Engagement Forum

on 11 March from 7 - 9pm at Yate Parish Hall on Station Road Yate.

ANYONE can attend, no need to register in advance.

Your Councillors will be there as well as the police, so it is a good place to sort out what can be done to tackle the problems we are facing locally.  You can also find out more about the Town Council Free Graffiti Removal service there.

(It's the middle one of the three community buildings on the south side of Station Road just before Eggshill Lane/ the small Tesco).

You can find out what the police think the local crimes are by looking at their crime map at:
https://www.police.uk/avon-and-somerset/CN207/
If it's not there, then someone has not reported it.
And the same site tells you what their current priorities are for Yate and Dodington - these change as a  direct result of the Community Engagement Forum.

Rodford Way and Shire Way Speeding

Residents who came to the town council meeting  and their councillors

Residents from the Rodford Way and Shire Way areas met with Town Councillors from the Focus Team to identify a 6 point action plan to try to tackle  speeding, particularly late night speedsters, and other problems on Shire Way and Rodford Way. Since then we've taken advice from other communities who have encountered similar problems, the police have been out doing speed checks. Residents have been advised to call the police when they get late night problems - if we don't log the problems then the police won't allocate resources to sort it.

Distraction burglary alert

Our local police have issued the following alert:

"At some point between 1.30 and 2.15pm on Tuesday 30 January, an unknown male knocked on the back door of a home in Harescombe. He had gone by the time the elderly resident got there, but then knocked on the front door. He claimed that he had hit their garage with his car and the homeowner went to have a look. No damage could be seen, and when the caller left it was discovered that jewellery was missing, and it seems that another offender has entered through the front door when the resident was at the garage, at the rear of the property"

"The offender was described as being a white male, about 5ft 10in tall, with cropped brown hair. He was clean shaven and spoke with an Irish accent. Please view the attached E-fit of the suspect. If you contact the police about this incident, please quote Reference number: 5218022392"

"If you have any information regarding this incident, contact the Police on 101. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111"

Advice on hate crime

This Friday there will be a drop-in session for those needing advice on dealing with hate crime.

Between 10am and 1.30pm on Friday 20th October staff from South Glos Council, Avon and Somerset Police and agencies such as SARI (Stand Against Racism and Inequality) will be in Yate Shopping Centre's West Walk. Anyone can ask questions about hate crime or hate-related incidents and get information and advice. If you can’t make this session, or for more information on hate crime including how to report it, visit: www.southglos.gov.uk/hatecrime

Caravan crime risk

A few nights ago there was an unsuccessful attempt to steal a caravan in Ram Hill, causing damage.  The thieves then returned and tried again. Once again they were unsuccessful but caused even more damage in their attempt. A caravan was also stolen in Rangeworthy recently so it could be the same gang going around.

We suggest that neighbours be extra vigilant, noting details of any suspicious persons or vehicles - perhaps particularly those equipped with towbars, and report any suspicious activity to the police. If a crime is in progress then use the '999' system. It would also be wise to check your existing caravan and trailer security.

Paul Crossley to stand for Police and Crime Commissioner

Paul Crossley, an experienced local community leader from Bath, has been announced as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Avon & Somerset Police & Crime Commissioner.

Local people across the Avon and Somerset force area will have the chance to vote for a new Commissioner in elections to be held on Thursday 5^th May 2016. The Commissioner’s role is to hold the service to scrutiny and account on their behalf,

Paul’s top priorities are to:

• improve the way public services and communities work together
• cut the costs of the Commissioner’s office.

Paul was the Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council from 2002-7 and from 2011-15, turning it into one of the most successful Councils in the area with low unemployment, high investment, great schools and low crime.

Paul Crossley said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate. My experience running a large Council enables me to improve efficiency whilst cutting waste and bureaucracy. I have the highest regard for the people who make the Police their career. I want to help Avon and Somerset Police be the best and most effective Police Force in the country. My full manifesto will be issued at the start of the election in early April and I encourage all residents to have their say in the vote on May 5th”

Police Officers, PCSOs and Special Constables want to make a difference and keep us safe. Paul believes that they need the personnel, equipment and resources to do this. Since 2010 the number of police in our area has reduced by over 500. And far too much police time is spent on issues that should be addressed by other services, for example for those relating to people who are vulnerable or with mental health problems. Paul believes this is a shared responsibility across the public sector and much more partnership working is needed.As your Police and Crime Commissioner Paul Crossley would prioritise five areas:

• Closer working with Councils, Health and Social Services to ensure that people with mental health problems get the proper care they need rather than ending up in a police cell because there is nowhere else to go.
• Rejuvenate community schemes such as Neighbourhood Watch and Farm Watch to ensure that communities feel involved and want to work with community based policing. Encourage the work of the 'Street Pastor' schemes that help keep our city and town centres safe at night and also help people who have had a good night out get home safely
• Increase the use of restorative justice and work to ensure that proceeds from crime are reclaimed from criminals and returned to victims and communities affected by criminal behaviour. We must improve the resolution rate in solving crimes so that victims of crime can get closure on the event and not feel blighted by worry.
• Ensure that young people at risk of getting into a life of crime are diverted into positive channels for their lives.
• Reduce bureaucracy, to enable our police to spend more time working in the community and less behind a desk, and cut the size of the office of the PCC to save vital funds.

You can join Paul on Facebook.com/CllrPaulCrossley, email him at paul.n.crossley@btinternet.com and follow him on Twitter @paulncrossley

Have you had a bike stolen?

Avon and Somerset Police recently arrested five people and seized seventy stolen bikes after a year long investigation. As of 29th July, twenty eight of these had no known owners and photographs have been posted here:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/aspolice/sets/72157656395071206

If you think one of the bikes might be yours, call 101. You can read more on the story here.

Top Tips on staying safe from rogue traders and distraction burglars

It is that time of the year when the police see a rise in cold callers, rogue traders and distraction burglars. The local team have issued the following top tips on staying safe:

 · Check the identity of the caller by telephoning the company they claim to be from. Use the telephone numbers listed in your local directory or provided independently by your service provider.
· Genuine callers won't mind making an appointment for a date when you can have someone with you. This gives you time to check their identity too.
· Never use companies who make unsolicited calls, who don't provide contracts, or who offer to do work for cash.
· Call a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them.
· Many service providers provide password schemes and it can be helpful to sign up to these. When unannounced callers knock at your door they should know the password if they are genuine.
· Keep doors locked and windows secure at all times.
· Where possible, have a safety chain fitted and always attach the chain before opening the door to strangers.
· Remember it's your doorstep, your decision.
· Check whether traders are members of the Local Authority Assured Trader Schemes (www.oft.gov.uk) or the government Trust Mark scheme (www.trustmark.org.uk).
· The key message is: 'Not sure? Don't open the door'
· If you suspect a rogue trader is at your door dial 999

If you know anyone who is not online who might benefit from this advice - an elderly or vulnerable friend or relative for example - why not print these tips off for them. And keep an eye out for neighbours who might be vulnerable to tactics employed by rogue traders and distraction burglars.

There is more advice at:
https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/newsroom/features/beware-rogue-traders/

The local dimension - Health and caring

South Gloucestershire has some brilliant and caring health professionals. But  services are still not always as good as they should be. We will work closely with residents and the local NHS to help drive up standards and improve support for carers.

We will:

1. Lobby for greater support and recognition for carers in South Gloucestershire.
2. Foster stronger partnership with your local NHS to help enable better local services.
3. Increase emphasis on helping people to lead healthier lives and doing more to help tackle chronic health problems caused by smoking, alcohol and drugs.
4. Support more work to help to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health.
5. Work in partnership with the police to help tackle anti-social behaviour and create a sense of safety for all.

Our record of action...

We have consistently campaigned for more health services to be provided at Yate, Thornbury and elsewhere so you don’t have to travel to Southmead unnecessarily.

This is an extract from the Liberal Democrat Vision for South Gloucestershire, our manifesto for the 2015 Local Elections.

Police announce Local Beat Surgery programme at Ridgewood and Abbotswood

Come and meet your local Neighbourhood Policing Team at their convenient Local Beat Surgeries. You can talk to them about any issues or concerns and get crime prevention advice.

Ridgewood Community Centre, Station Road, Yate

Tues 5th May 2015  10-11am
Tues 2nd June 2015 10-11am
Weds 24th June 2015 10-11am
Tues 14th July 2015 10-11am
Thurs 13th August 2015 10-11am
Weds 9th Sept 2015 10-11am

Corinne’s café, Abbotswood, Yate

Weds 6th May 2015 10-11am
Weds 3rd June 2015 2-3pm
Tues 23rd June 2015 10-11am
Weds 15th July 2015 10-11am
Tues 4th August 2015 2-3pm
Weds 2nd Sept 2015 2-3pm
Tues 22nd Sept 2015 10-11am.

Rodford Way crash site in the cold light of day

Tony Davis at the bus stop -
it's still standing, but very badly danaged

We thought you might like to see the extent of the damage to the Rodford Way bus stop following Thursday evening's crash. It doesn't look too bad as you drive past, but when Cllr Tony Davis visited site to check it out it was clear that it's a write-off. We will report back when we know a bit more about the circumstances of the accident.

Yet another accident at Yate blackspot

At around 8.25 pm this evening (Thursday 15 January) a car collided with a bus stop on Rodford Way, Yate near the Abbotswood underpass. The car appeared very badly damaged and the bus stop was a write-off. The Police, Ambulance Service and Fire and Rescue attended but it is not known what the extent of injuries might be or whether anyone else was involved.

There have been numerous accidents at this spot, including one child fatality in 2008.

South Gloucestershire Councillor Tony Davis (Lib Dem, Dodington) said "Whatever the cause of this particular accident, the number of serious incidents along this short stretch of road means there could be serious underlying issues"

"When the circumstances of this accident become clearer we shall be calling for a full joint review of this road by the Highway Authority and the Police"

Update 16/01/2015: The Gazette reports "A man was treated at the scene for minor injuries" - sounds like a lucky escape.

The police are after you! (To help them)

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens would like to appoint three local, independent people to contribute to the work of the Independent Residents' Volunteer Panel. Members of the Panel are an important means of enhancing public trust and confidence in the handling of complaints against Avon & Somerset Police and supports the governance role of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

You can find out more on the PCC website. The closing date for applications is 16th January.

Police and Crime Commissioner Forum Wed 3rd December

Sue Mountstevens our Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) will be holding her next public forum on Wednesday, December 3rd from 1845 - 2100 at The Shire Way Community Centre, Yate, Bristol, BS37 8YS.

It's a chance for you to hear from North East's Area Commander Chief Superintendent Caroline Peters, and to ask any questions to the PCC, C/Supt Peters and other senior police officers.

If you would like to attend please register here , email pcc@avonandsomerset.pnn.police.uk or call 01275 816377 so they can ensure a seat is reserved for you.

If you have questions please email them ahead of the event. This will enable the PCC and senior police officers to bring the relevant information to the meeting and give those who cannot attend an opportunity to have an input.

You can also tweet your questions to @AandSPCC using the hashtag #YPCCYV.

Barn fires in Chipping Sodbury area - police ask landowners to be alert and appeal for information

Poloice are asking farmers and landowners to be on alert after three deliberate barn fires in the Chipping Sodbury area early yesterday morning. (Tuesday Nov 11). They are also appealing for anyone who saw any suspicious vehicles or people in the area to call them on 101.

The fires were all started sometime around 2am. The first was at Ten Acre Farm on Horton Road in Chipping Sodbury where a stone barn was destroyed, including 350 bales of hay and a number of cars and farm vehicles.

The second fire was at nearby barn at Colts Green. An empty caravan was set alight which then spread to the barn, destroying it and farm machinery and vehicles inside.

A short time afterwards a third fire was reported at Ostland Farm in Wapley Road in Codrington. A barn and its contents were destroyed.

Anyone who has any information about the arsons, or who may be responsible, should call police on 101 quoting reference number 117280/14.