Some 1500 rural Watch signs are being delivered to newFarmwatch and Horsewatch members across Suffolk this month, thanks to support from insurer NFU Mutual.
Anyone who is already a member of the scheme or sister Horsewatch scheme should have received a similar sign to display on their property when they signed up, and all new members of either initiative will receive one of the new ones when they join.
Farmwatch is in operation across Suffolk โ like Neighbourhood Watch, it provides members with information on crime in their area via Police Direct, plus advice on keeping yourself and your property safe.
The main aims of Farm/Horsewatch are to –
Reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism through advice, information on offences and vigilance
Strengthen community spirit so that everyone can play a part in protecting their property
Improve two-way communication between farmers, rural communities and the police
Reduce fear of crime in rural areas
Bury town and rural Community Watch Liaison Officer Nina Martin says by displaying these signs, members can make a clear statement to criminals. โThese signs can be displayed anywhere on a memberโs property, to show that the owner is taking steps to make their property secure and if a criminal ventures onto the property, theyโll be met with the likes of sturdy locks, secured livestock and machinery, lighting or CCTV. It also means the owner will be sharing information with other members of the rural community and the police on suspicious activity in their area.โ
As part of Farmwatch or Horsewatch, members will receive messages from Suffolk Constabularyโs messaging service Police Direct, and the NFUโs own e-mail messaging service. People signed up to Police Direct receive information by e-mail or text about crimes or incidents relevant to their location or business soon after they happen.
