Dronfield car crime prevention event a success

Sgt Tony Klenczar and Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinatior Jean Greaves with Dronfield resident Martin Greenfield

Hundreds of motorists in Dronfield received free car crime prevention packs as part of an initiative to drive down vehicle crime.

Derbyshire Constabulary teamed up with the North East Derbyshire Community Safety Partnership (NEDCSP) to offer motorists in the Dronfield area free property marking pens, sat nav cloths and air fresheners.

Officers handed out hundreds of packs to shoppers at the Dronfield Civic Centre on Thursday, February 4, as well as offering advice on how to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car crime.

The cracking crime event was held to educate the public on how they can help police to maintain low car crime in their area by ensuring all valuables are out of sight and doors and windows are locked.

The crime prevention packs were funded by the NEDCSP.

Sgt Tony Klenczar, who is responsible for the Dronfield area Safer Neighbourhood teams, said: "It was a very successful event and car owners were enthusiastic about the products and advice we were offering them.

"Hopefully, people will use them and help us to keep car crime down."

Members of Chesterfield Neighbourhood Watch were there to sign people up to the free Vehicle Watch 25 plus scheme.

Those who join the scheme display stickers in their cars and if it is seen being driven by someone who appears under the age of 25 it may be stopped and checked by police.

Residents were also encouraged to join the Community Messaging Service to receive regular updates about issues affecting their neighbourhood.

Local resident Martin Greenfield, who signed up to the scheme, said it was a great idea and would give people peace of mind.

For more information on crime prevention or to join any of the above schemes call 0345 123 3333 or visit the website www.derbyshire.police.uk.