The figures do show a decrease in theft/damage to motor vehicles, but to my mind, this is still unacceptably high.

We must continue to be vigilant.

Indeed many of these offences could have been prevented by:

• Locking car doors when unattended
• Making sure that property is not left on display in the car, such as mobile phones, laptops, briefcase, car cd/stereos or jackets/coats
• Never leave vehicle documents in your car - don't make it easy for a thief to sell your car or provide a cover story if stopped by police.

Crime Prevention

Of course the maxim, prevention is better than cure, can never be overstated.

Many of you may be aware that Hertfordshire Constabulary have a crime prevention officer available to carry out free surveys of your home. The crime prevention officer can provide advice on, amongst other things, alarms, locks and lighting. Moreover, advice can also be about vehicle security.

Again I know that this has been mentioned in previous Newsletters, but nevertheless I will repeat it here. Be aware of 'bogus officials' who hold themselves out as being from one of the utilities attending to read gas/electric metres. Please keep an eye on elderly neighbours or if you have relatives again reinforce the message to keep the doors chained and to ask for identification. Better still telephone, the relevant utility, and find out if they have sent someone around. DO NOT LET THEM IN.

General Matters

And finally, I would like at this time to pay tribute to the previous incumbent, PC Voja Mihailovic, who has given 15 years of sterling service to the residence of Brookmans Park and Little Heath. He may have moved on in terms of his role in the Constabulary, however, I can assure you that his unrivalled knowledge and vast experience will not be wasted.

PC Elvett Phipps