|
Maryport, Aspatria & Silloth |
|
In this months newsletter you will read about some of the things the team have been doing this month.
In November and December we continued to see extra patrols targeting anti-social behaviour and serious violence as part of Operation Enhance.
These are extra patrols funded by money secured by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner to target anti-social behaviour and violence in hotspot areas.
This month we also supported anti-social behaviour week and below you will read what ourselves and partners did during the week to highlight the work we do all year round.
Inspector Pete Aiston
|
Operation Enhance
Four months in and Operation Enhance has so far resulted in 143 stop and searches, 358 intel submissions from the public and 43 arrests.
Op Enhance sees extra police patrols in areas identified as hotspots for anti-social behaviour and/or serious violence across the county.
The operation has been made possible thanks to £1 million of extra funding secured by Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner from the Government’s Hotspot Response Fund to target anti-social behaviour (ASB) and serious violence in hotspot areas across the county.
The operation sees extra patrols in 18 areas identified by statistical analysis as the county's hotspot areas of anti-social behaviour and serious violence.
As part of the operation, the public is encouraged to report antisocial behaviour by visiting the constabulary’s website https://orlo.uk/gKvGc or our non-emergency number 101.
In an emergency always call 999. Information and intelligence from the public is vital so we can work together to tackle issues in their communities.
|
 |
|
A big thank you to staff and residents at the Dales care home in Maryport.
Whilst doing the rounds on Operation Enhance on 27 November, officers were kindly given a brew to warm up and a little tour of the care home and its residents.
They are all gearing up for the annual Christmas Panto where there will be a starring role from your local CBO PC Sam Steele.
On a serious note though don't forget to look after your elderly neighbours who are alone this winter.
|
Anti-social behaviour week
As part of anti-social behaviour week (18-24 November) of action partners from the local focus hubs in Cumberland worked together to speak to residents and identify problems.
ASB is a priority for Cumbria Constabulary and as such Operation Enhance, which sees extra patrols in areas identified as hotspots for ASB, continues.
The operation sees extra patrols in 18 areas identified by statistical analysis as the county's hotspot areas of anti-social behaviour and serious violence. These areas include areas of Carlisle, Barrow, Workington, Whitehaven, Kendal, Penrith, Maryport, Cleator Moor, Ulverston and Bowness-on-Windermere.
As well as providing high-visibility patrols, these officers also proactively respond to criminality and safeguarding issues that arise in their patrol locality.
As a result of work carried out by local officers and the high visibility patrols from Op Enhance, Cumbria has seen a reduction in ASB by 17.2% from April 2024 compared to the same time period in 2023.
During the week of action, Allerdale NPT supported partner agencies through the local focus hub, in reaching out to residents in Workington and Maryport to provide advice and support regarding ASB and other issues residents were experiencing.
The team met with licensee’s in Maryport to discuss implementation of a new Pub Watch initiative.
Local PCSOs were also out on high visibility patrols at night in hotspot areas with the aim to reduce ASB and help residents feel safer.
Following feedback from the community relating to anti-social behaviour, drugs and serious violence we coordinated a meeting on 21 November for our licensed premises in Maryport.
We had an excellent discussion around Community Safety with representatives from Ellenborough Social Club, Captain Nelson, The Butchers Arms, Glasson Rangers, The Bowling Club, The Sailors Return and Grasslot Sports and Social Club.
Everyone was very impressed with the demo of the new innovative problem solving solutions we hope to implement in the Town and were keen to be involved in the new Pubwatch scheme and the Community Alcohol Partnership moving forward.
The meeting was attended by the Police (including the famous PC Sam Steele), Allerdale Local Focus Hub and Cumberland Council Licensing.
Thank you for all of your brilliant ideas and feedback. Th next meeting was led on 16 December.
Officers deliver road safety items to schools
Maryport Town Council had concerns that young people were out walking and cycling during the dark nights and were not able to be seen.
Members of the Council secured funding for reflective snapbands, cycle helmets, lights and saddle bags, that PCSO Kerry Harris & PC Sam Steele on 9 December have been taking round to the schools.
Street safe survey Aspatria
On 8 November, PCSOs Pete Nichol and Dan Snell carried out a street safe leaflet drop in Aspatria.
This allows residents to report any issues or concerns to us.
Please, if you received one, fill out the form and send it back in the stamped addressed envelope. This enables us and partners to address any issues you may have.
We wish to remind members of the public if they do not feel confident to report ASB issues via the online reporting form or directly to Police, you can also call independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
Community reporting is vital to receive an effective Policing response and without communities passing on the information of the issues in their area, we may never become aware of it as a problem.
|
 |
|
Stop search
On 29 November, officer carried out a stop search.
One male from Maryport locked up following proactive stop searches by plain clothes officers for supplying cocaine.
|
Criminal damage Aspatria War Memorial Park
We are aware of criminal damage having been caused to the Christmas lights in Aspatria War Memorial Park at approximately 5:30pm on Tuesday 10 December 2024.
Officers will be reviewing any CCTV evidence in order to identify the offenders who will be dealt with accordingly.
If anyone has any information in relation to who is responsible for this crime please contact Cumbria Police on 101 and make reference to the Police Incident Reference: CP-20241213-0137.
|
|
Patrols with Castle and Coasts
On 26 November, PCSO Pete Nichol and Ellen Graham from Castles and Coasts housing providers have done some joint visits in Harriston.
They also carried out a Street Safe and anti-social behaviour leaflet drop has been done allowing residents to report any issues to both partners.
This can be Antisocial behaviour drugs activity or any other issues that residents may have.
|
|
 |
Speed checks Beckfoot
On 9 November, after concerns having been raised again by members of the public PCSO Pete Nichol has done speed gun checks at Beckfoot.
Four cars were clocked going over the 40mph speed limit and one driver was given words of advice due to the speed they were driving.
Please remember Beckfoot is a village with young children and elderly residents that cross the road in the village the speed limit is there for a reason to protect all road users and pedestrians.
|
|
School talk
On 20 November, PCSO Pete Nichol has been into Allonby Primary School to talk about online safety, stranger danger and the role of the police.
There were some excellent questions including what is the fastest car Cumbria police have, and is a police dog allowed to ride on the back of a police horse.
Well done Allonby school great afternoon.
|
|
 |
 |
|
Foot patrol in Allonby
On 14 November, PCSO Pete Nichol is out on foot patrol in Allonby and will be calling in at the school.
If you see Pete or any of our officers feel free to stop and have a chat with anything you may have concerns about or if you would just like a chat.
|
|
Foot patrol in Silloth
On 15 November, during the evening PCSO Pete Nichol was out on foot patrol in Silloth.
It was nice to see a few people out enjoying the festive time of year.
Please stay safe while you are out enjoying yourself. You can find personal safety advice visit - Personal safety: how to stay safe | Cumbria Police
|
|
 |
 |
|
Vehicle sezied
Funny thing about driving licences.... you need one to drive!
Unfortunately, another provisional licence holder and no insurance in Maryport, seized while on foot patrol.
|
Street Safe drop
On 19 November, PCSO Pete Nichol has done a street safe leaflet drop in Prospect and has been on foot patrol in both Prospect and Oughterside.
This is due to a vehicle been targeted with having eggs thrown over it. The local CBO and PCSO will be patrolling the local area in the coming weeks.
Street Safe surveys are an opportunity for you to raise any concerns or observations you have that are impacting your area for our team and partners to look into.
If you have received one of these surveys, please let us know your thoughts by completing the form and sending it back in the accompanying return envelope.
We wish to remind members of the public if they do not feel confident to report issues via the online reporting form or directly to Police, you can also call independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.
|
 |
|
Blennerhasset School
On 3 December, we visited Blennerhasset School to speak to years 5 & 6 about the role of a Police Officer
We received some some lovely drawings from the class as a thankyou for our visit.
One of these has been displayed in the Allerdale Neighbourhood office for the team to see.
|
Remembrance day 2024
Officers and PCSOs from Allerdale NPT supported Remembrance Day parades across Silloth, Aspatria, Maryport, Workington, Cockermouth and Keswick. A big thank you to our Special Constables who also turned out to service parades as well.
It was good to see so many people come and support the parades, great community spirit shown across all areas.
It was an honour to lay a wreath at all the Cenotaphs and memorials.
Mini police at Richmond Hill School target road safety
On 14 November, our mini police team joined us at Richmond Hill School in Aspatria to address speeding and improve safety around the school.
It’s essential for drivers to exercise caution when passing the school, as the nearby four-way junction poses a significant risk to students, their families, teachers, and the crossing attendant.
Please remember that the speed limit on this road is 30 mph—let’s all make sure to follow it.
|
Winners at the Neighbourhood Policing Awards
On 3 December, officers from Cumbria Constabulary’s Neighbourhood Policing Teams celebrated their success and were recognised for their hard work at the annual Neighbourhood Policing Awards.
The awards were presented to officers and PCSOs during Cumbria Constabulary’s Neighbourhood Policing Conference on 2 December.
Seven awards were presented by Neighbourhood Policing lead, Chief Superintendent Andy Wilkinson, to recognise the individual’s contribution towards neighbourhood policing over the past year.
Three officers from Allerdale NPT won awards:
PCSO Rachel Pape was recognised for her outstanding contribution within the Workington community. Over the past year she has been building relationships with local residents and businesses and supporting them if they become a victim of crime.
As a result of her dedication and hard work, anti-social behaviour has reduced in Workington by 29% this year.
PC Catherine Higson was awarded NPT officer of the year in recognition of her determination to provide victims of crime with the best outcome. She is committed to providing a safer neighbourhood for residents and works with victims of crime to provide support and reassurance
As part of her role, PC Higson has worked with local shops and businesses in Workington to deal with repeat ASB offenders.
Sergeant Neil McKinnell, of the Workington NPT, was recognised for his leadership qualities while inspiring his team and making sure they are always supported.
Sgt McKinnell has been able to work on complex cases and address long standing disputes by providing problem solving solutions which has improved our service to the community.
Read more: https://orlo.uk/5vLzu
StreetSafe is a service that allows you to report safety concerns in public places without giving us your name.
This includes issues like poorly lit streets, abandoned buildings, or vandalism, as well as instances where you feel unsafe due to someone following or verbally abusing you.
Report an issue here: StreetSafe | Cumbria Police
|
|
|
For more information, please visit our website and enter your postcode in the Your Area section. |
Your local officers
Want to know who your local officers are?
Simply go to our website - www.cumbria.police.uk
Scroll down the home page and you can browse different areas to see who your local team are - or enter your postcode.
Not only will you be able to find out who your named local officers and PCSOs are, you will also be able to view our local policing priorities and details of any meetings or events we will be attending.
|
|
|
Have you ever thought about being a police officer, special constable, PCSO or staff member?
Could you be make a real difference to people in Cumbria and help keep them safe?
Recruitment is open now. We are looking for enthusiastic and dedicated people to apply now to join our teams.
|
|
Independent Advisory Group (IAG) Cumbria Police
Cumbria Constabulary are now recruiting for Independent Advisory Group (IAG) members from all communities that live and work within Cumbria. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute towards improving policing and wider service delivery throughout Cumbria.
This is a voluntary role and we welcome applications from all members of communities within Cumbria to contribute to providing, constructive and impartial advice that will enhance our service delivery.
To apply fill out the form here: Apply to join an Independent Advisory Group (IAG) | Cumbria Police
|
|
|
Wanted this winter – public appeal launched for wanted people across Cumbria
Police in Cumbria are appealing for information from the public on the location of twelve wanted people.
The public appeal has been launched as part of ongoing action across the county to progress investigations with the aim of ensuring those who commit crimes in this county are brought to justice.
Detective Inspector Dave Howard, Cumbria Constabulary, said:
“We would like the public’s help in locating the twelve individuals who feature as part of this appeal.
“The appeals are connected to ongoing investigations covering a range of crimes.
“Each day, our officers and staff ensure those who are wanted in connection with offences are identified and located so we can progress investigations.
“Public information has, and always will be important in assisting our work to ensure we secure justice for victims.
“People in Cumbria know where these individuals are. Please pick up the phone and contact Cumbria Police or do so anonymously via Crimestoppers.” Read more here.
90 Op Merlin arrests made in in past 12 months as officers continue to target wanted individuals
Wanted men, shoplifters and those involved in the supply of drugs were just some of those arrested during Cumbria Police’s most recent Operation Merlin week of action.
Operation Merlin ran across Cumbria between 9 December and 13 December, resulting in 18 arrests across the county. This week’s arrests took the total Operation Merlin arrest figure for 2024 to 90 arrests. Read more here.
|
Drink and drug drivers be warned – expect to be tested and arrested this Christmas
Police officers will be scouring the roads of Cumbria in the lead-up to the Christmas party season and testing and arresting drivers who puts lives at risk behind the wheel.
This time last year, Cumbria Police promised to test hundreds of drivers for drink and drugs throughout December.
This promise was kept as more than 1,800 drivers were stopped and more than 1,300 tested for drink or drug driving.
A total of 130 arrests were made as a result – and officers are expecting a similar picture in 2024. Read more here.
|
Specialist patrols will offer reassurance and catch offenders in nightlife areas at Christmas
Police are responding to concerns felt by women and girls – by sending out specialist patrols to offer reassurance and catch offenders in busy nightlife areas during the festive party season.
More high-visibility officers will be out in the run-up to Christmas, while police in plain clothes will also be deployed to identify anyone displaying inappropriate or predatory behaviour.
The move follows concerns raised in a survey carried out by police to hear more from women and girls on how they felt about their own personal safety.
Feeling safe in the night-time economy was raised as a key worry, leading to an extra focus on violence against women and girls. Read more here.
Enquiries ongoing following incidents of spiking reported to police
Detectives are asking those out over the festive period to be vigilant after three incidents of spiking were reported to officers over the weekend.
The reports were of an unknown substance being added to drinks in Whitehaven, with a woman and two men affected.
The report also follows two reports made the previous weekend in Whitehaven.
Enquiries are ongoing, with detectives reviewing CCTV and looking at forensic opportunities.
We are also aware of social media posts circulating regarding needle spiking, no reports have been made to police but we encourage anyone believed to have been spiked to report it to police.
Detective Inspector Calvin Greaves from Cumberland CID said “We are asking people to be vigilant whilst out over the festive period and report any incident to us so we can investigate.
“Spiking is an awful act, whatever the intention, the outcome is leaving individuals vulnerable and feeling unsafe.
“We would ask that if you believe they have been a victim of spiking to contact us.
“We will investigate regardless of when the offence is believed to have occurred.
“Reporting offences of this nature is at times a daunting prospect and we recognise the significant trauma spiking has on victims and help and support for this can be offered and signposted by speaking to officers.” Read more here.
|
Please share this information with any vulnerable friends or family.
We are warning people across Cumbria to be on be vigilant to scam phone calls from fraudsters.
This follows a report made to police yesterday in which the victim was contacted by the fraudster claiming to be from her bank and that their bank card had expired, and she is due to be issued a new one.
The following day a male attending the victims address in Barrow and introduced himself as a police officer who needed to carry out fingerprint checks on her cards. He also offered to take her jewellery for safekeeping.
The male left with the cards and later posted them back through the door after having made a number of transactions with the cards.
The scams fit the pattern of fraudsters pretending to be officials, such as bank fraud teams, police officers or HMRC officials.
However, the scams can differ slightly from call to call.
But the fraudsters often request bank details, money to be sent electronically, cash to be withdrawn at the bank for collection or expensive items to be bought for collection at a later time.
Police and other agencies would never request this.
If you have any concern that the person on the phone may be a fraudster, put the phone down and call the police from a different phone on 101 for advice and guidance.
Officers are asking anyone who has been victim to such a scam to come forward.
If you receive a call you’re not expecting, you should be suspicious. The vital things to remember are that your bank, other agencies and the police would:
 Never ask you for your bank account details or PIN number over the phone.
Never ask you to withdraw money and send it to them via a courier, taxi, bank transfer or by any other means.
Never ask you to send your bank cards or any other personal property to them via courier, taxi or by any other means.
If you have any doubts about the identity of the person that you are speaking with, put the phone down and attend the bank or police station in person, wherever possible, to discuss the call you have received, or call a trusted number for the bank or police using a different telephone than the one that you have been contacted on.
It’s recommended you wait at least five minutes and make sure you can hear a dialling tone before you call, as there have been cases of fraudsters keeping the line open after a victim has hung up.
We ask that the public please share this information with any vulnerable friends or family.
If you think you have been the victim of a fraud you can report this to police on 101 and to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 – or by visiting their website at Report | Cumbria Police
|
|
|
Please report any incidents of crime or anti-social behaviour to us, to help us keep Cumbria safe.
If a crime is in progress always call 999.
You can report online at https://www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it
Our online Live Chat function is a new service giving you an alternative way to communicate with a Police Officer in real time. More here.
You can also phone on 101.
Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
|
|
|
Please consider taking two minutes to let us know what you think of your local area newsletter.
Your feedback helps us to ensure we are providing information that you find useful and interesting about policing in your area.
|
|
|
|
|
