Police numbers: 999 - emergency, 0845 4567000 - crimes that already have occurred or enquiries, 0800 555111 - Crimestoppers anonymous line.

Coordinator. Neill Thomas 01458 223613 email neill.thomas@uwclub.net

Contacts: Roy 223549 Kathy 224664 Jenny 223502 Helen 223728 David 223743 Chris Lane

November has been a quiet month in the village but we can learn from what has been happening in the wider area of South Somerset.

There have been a number of burglaries recently in South Somerset from outbuildings, the most prominent of which was the theft of a ride-on mower, a go-kart and a quad bike together with a number of high value tools from just one property. The total value of the haul was in excess of £6500. If you do possess high value machinery such as this the police advise that all doors and windows of out buildings in which it is stored are secured with visible locks. They go on to suggest that it may also be beneficial to join the Rural Watch scheme which involves a security marking initiative. For more information contact www.avonandsomerset.police

Change of subject. Police are warning householders that distraction burglars have been changing their way of operating now that the nights have drawn in. At this time of year burglars tend break into homes through windows and back doors, only coming out with their story when they are challenged. Intruders have claimed to be from the police, security officers or well-meaning neighbours chasing burglary suspects! They have changed their tactics because vulnerable people are taking heed of the simple security message 'unsure? don't open the door' and are even less likely to open up to a stranger on darker evenings. If you have any friends, neighbours or family who are vulnerable members of the community please tell them to call the police immediately if they have any unexpected and unknown visitors or see suspicious activity. It is vital to call police at once if you've been burgled or find someone in hour home. The police say they have been very successful capturing offenders when victims have dialled 999 immediately after being targeted by burglars. So don't delay – call straight away. Additionally, anyone who turns away a suspicious caller should immediately call the police on 0845 456 7000.

Please note that our beat PCSO Karen Pack will be holding her December surgery in the Methodist Hall on the evening of Tuesday 16th between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm. Due to reorganisation, Keinton Mandeville will come under the Wincanton Sector from the middle of January next year so regrettably we will be losing Karen from that date. During her 10 months looking after Keinton she has hugely improved the police presence in the village, contributed a great deal to the village and is well known and respected by many residents. As this will be her last ‘surgery’ it will be a good opportunity for us to show our appreciation for her good work by calling in to wish her farewell. I am sure Karen would be very grateful. I will also provide a farewell card for anyone to sign if they so wish.

I will pass on the name of the new PCSO as soon as I am given it.

Finally, as we approach Christmas petty thieves will be looking for easy pickings. Please remember your personal security both at home and whilst out doing your Christmas shopping. Do not let them spoil your Christmas.

The role of a PCSO is vital to the police team and their work is very varied. The Police are looking for people of all ages, representing all communities, who enjoy and are confident in dealing with the public. The Police are seeking applications from every community within our force area so if you are interested to find out more about becoming a PCSO, via www.avonandsomerset.police.uk or call 01275 816046.