Crackdown on car crime

POLICE are gearing up to introduce a community anti-car crime initiative in Wanstead High Street.

The safe vehicle drive was carried out in the crime-hit Sainsbury's car park in George Lane, South Woodford last year and proved an arresting success.

Incidents fell from a whopping 98 crimes last April, May and June to just four in October, November and December and now police are hoping to recreate the success story in Wanstead.

Redbridge police's crime prevention officer PC John Ruff, who co-ordinated the South Woodford scheme, said: "Wanstead High Street is an area that's been identified as having a high incidence of vehicle crime.

"The initiative probably won't start for at least another month. We will have high visibility police patrols in the area and will also be using a whole range of other crime prevention methods."

Enlisting support from residents and businesses he said: "It is essential that businesses and residents come on board and take part in the initiative to make it a success.

"We're asking people who have business premises along Wanstead High Street or anybody with links to community notice boards to contact us to display our posters and promotional material.

"Vehicle crime is one of the most easily preventable crimes; it's all about taking time to prevent a crime."

Any businesses, residents' groups or individuals who would like to get involved with the scheme, should contact PC Ruff on 8345 3406.

08:38 Sunday 16th March 2003

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