Farmwatch launched

COLERAINE Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), together with the PSNI and the farming community, have launched a new initiative called `FARMWATCH`.
By The Newsroom
Published 1st Feb 2013, 12:20 BST

Funded by Coleraine PCSP, the scheme aims to reduce crime and the fear of crime in rural communities by providing support to those farmers who sign up to take part in the scheme.

Coleraine PCSP member and mayor of Coleraine, councillor Sam Cole, said: “Coleraine PCSP has identified the need for specific support for members of the rural community who are determined to reduce crime in their own areas. ‘FARMWATCH’ aims to build upon and strengthen community spirit in rural parts of the Coleraine Borough Council area, so that everyone can protect their property.

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“I would encourage as many farmers as possible to sign up to this scheme. We must continue to use all resources possible to reduce criminal activity within our communities and ‘FARMWATCH’ will assist us to do just that”.

Sergeant Jonathon Anderson from PSNI added; “We are determined to reduce the incidents of rural crime across the borough.

“Farmers who choose to sign up to the scheme will receive specific `FARMWATCH` property signage which will alert those involved in criminal activity that the scheme is in place.

“They will also receive ‘FARMWATCH’ stickers warning that the property is marked. In addition, a marking kit will be provided for marking farm machinery. These measures, together with practical crime prevention advice to farmers and landowners, will help ensure their property and equipment are as secure as possible. “Trailer marking will also be taking place at local locations for farmers to avail of free of charge. Farmers will also receive messages to their mobile phones from a Rural Text Alert Scheme”.

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Mayor Cole extends an invitation for members of the public to attend a public information event at Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart, on Monday, February 18 at 7pm.

If you require further information about ‘FARMWATCH’ or wish to take part in the initiative please get in touch with [email protected] on 08456008000 or by post to; Coleraine Rural Neighbourhood Police Team, C/O Coleraine PSNI, 17- 19 Lodge Road, Coleraine, BT52 1LY.

Related topics:Coleraine