Are you aware of the Cambridgeshire Countryside Watch scheme? It is a crime prevention partnership between Police, National Farmers Union and those who live or work in the countryside. Its aim is to achieve a reduction in rural crime, and to provide crime prevention advice and reassurance to those who live in rural areas.

The basic principles of the scheme are:
· Members are committed to achieving a realistic minimum standard of security for their property
· Members join a communication network
· Police provide information regarding criminal activity to scheme members.

There are two District Countryside Watch Development Officers working with the Police on Histon Sector. Ellen Muirhead covers the South Cambs area whilst Jim Carrott is responsible for the East Cambs side. They are considered by officers at Histon to be an invaluable link with members of the rural community.

For a joining fee of £25, and £20 for each subsequent year, you will receive one large or two small CSW signs. Benefits to joining the scheme include:
· Regular, current information on crimes and trends
· Crime prevention advice from the Countryside Watch security advisor
· A monthly newsletter from the scheme
· Feedback from police on information you have given
· Discounts on some security equipment

If you are interested in joining Countryside Watch, or would like more information on the scheme please call Julie Gilbert at Histon Sector Police Station, in the first instance.

Inconsiderate drivers in Bar Hill are being warned that they could be putting the lives of others at risk. Community Beat Manager, PC Kevin Misik said there have been instances where parking on paths and verges has made some roadways so narrow that fire engines and ambulances would find it almost impossible to get through to the village centre. He went on to say "I appreciate that parking is at a premium here but people must be considerate when parking their cars. If things don't improve, we'll be looking at issuing parking tickets, which carry a £30 fine".

Do you have a young person in your family who is between 16-18 years old? If so, they can apply through their school for a free card which proves their age. If the young person is no longer in education, he/she can still apply by completing an application form.
The scheme is run by Cambridgeshire Trading Standards Dept, in partnership with other agencies. Its aim is to assist retailers in ensuring that certain goods are not sold to people who are too young to make those purchases. If you would like more information or an application form, then contact Trading Standards on 0845 3030666.

There has been an increase in reports of theft from motor vehicles this month. A lot of vehicle crime is the result of criminals seeing an opportunity and taking it. A few simple steps can help prevent you from becoming a victim to this type of crime.

· Park in safe, well-lit areas
· Activate alarm/immobiliser
· Shut windows/sunroof and lock doors
· Consider having the vehicle registration number etched on glass surfaces e.g. windows, headlamps
· Security marking the valuables in your car is worthwhile e.g. stereo.
· Always remove keys from the ignition, even if leaving your vehicle for a short time
· Stereo system - if possible get one that's removable or has a front that can be taken off.
· And remember not to leave anything at all on display in your vehicle.
For more information on this or any security issue, please contact our Community Safety Unit at Parkside Police Station on 01223 358966

The figures below relate to reported crimes for Histon Sector for the period 1st - 30th April 2002. The figure shown in brackets relates to the number of crimes reported last month.

We are aware of a number of scams whereby e-mails or letters have been received, sometimes from abroad, that induce you - by promises of financial reward - to make contact. The intention is to obtain your banking details and then attempt to extract money from the account. If you receive an e-mail of this nature, we would strongly advise you not to enter into any correspondence with the sender, under any circumstances.

If you have information about any crime call CRIMESTOPPERS. This call is FREE. You do not have to give your name or address and any reward you may get will also remain anonymous.

Call 0800 555 111