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Police, partner agencies and members of the rural community came together for a Barn Meet in East Herts on Tuesday (12 March).
The event, which took place at Warren Farm in Braughing, was held in partnership with the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) and provided an opportunity for residents to find out about the work being done to help tackle and prevent rural crime.
Chief Constable Charlie Hall, East Herts Chief Inspector David Cooke, Inspector Mark Collins, and new Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant David Miller were on hand to answer questions and discuss any concerns.
Sergeant Alex Winning, from the Rural Operational Support Team (ROST), was also in attendance with his colleagues, to talk about the specialist capabilities the team has and the changes that are being implemented in the coming months to help them better support rural communities.
Topics such as hare coursing, fly-tipping and theft of machinery were discussed, as well as the importance of reporting incidents and information to police.
People then had the opportunity to speak with organisations in attendance, including the Neighbourhood Policing Team, Special Constabulary, Police Support Volunteers, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Tees solicitors, SelectaDNA and uWatch.
Chief Inspector David Cooke said: “East Herts has the largest rural community in Hertfordshire and we’re committed to doing everything we can to support them.
“These events allow us to meet with people face to face, to hold open and honest discussions about the issues and concerns that need addressing. I’d like to thank everyone who came along and Warren Farm for hosting us.”
Rural Neighbourhood Sergeant David Miller added: “Our main aim is to prevent crime from occurring in the first place and we’re continuing to work alongside local farmers and our partners to do just that.
“But we need the public to help us by reporting incidents and any suspicious activity straight away. While we may not always be able to take immediate action, please be assured that every call does count and helps us to build up the intelligence we need to take matters forward. It also helps us to direct our resources accordingly.
“If you have any concerns, please reach out to us. We want to work with you to keep rural East Herts a safe place.”
NFU Group Secretary Leonie King said: “Rural crime remains a huge issue for farmers and continues to have a detrimental impact on the farming community both in terms of the cost to clean up fly-tipping but also the cost in terms of theft of plant and machinery and more.
“Added to which is the issue of vulnerability and isolation of farmers and the threat that rural crime poses to members and their families. This was re-enforced at the event by NFU member Andrew Watts.
“The NFU, in collaboration with the rural police team, recognise the importance in a co-ordinated approach in tackling rural crime and continue to work hard to strengthen that partnership.
“More than 80 NFU members turned out at the Barn Meet to reinforce the need for a committed Rural Strategy for East Herts and police presence in the community.”