Warning over Hungerford car thefts

The issue has become a perennial problem, with dog walkers’ vehicles on the common being a favourite target.
The last spate was in December last year but determined action by Hungerford and district neighbourhood police team saw a subsequent reduction.
However the warm weather has encouraged opportunistic thieves to try their luck.
Again, Hungerford Common, particularly the Lower Denford area, remains high risk.
Conversely, the car park overlooked by the busy Downgate pub has so far escaped the thieves’ attentions.
A meeting of Hungerford Town Council was told that the latest incident was on May 18, when a car window was smashed and items removed when it was parked at Lower Denford.
PCSO Adam Burson said: “We’re still receiving reports of beauty spot thefts. We haven’t had as many as previous years but people are still leaving personal belongings in their cars.
“Can we please be extra vigilant and remove all goods before you leave your car unattended. If you are out walking and notice someone acting suspiciously then please call 101.”
The team has renewed its advice from last December’s campaign:
* trust locks not luck – double check your car is secure
* display and you’ll pay – don’t tempt thieves, take your belongings with you
* Sat Nav – remove and wipe off sucker mark on window
PCSO Burson also told the meeting of a recent ‘rogue traders’ incident..
Two men knocked on a door in Woodbury, Lambourn, around 11am on May 27 and told the elderly resident they were from a roof maintenance company and wanted to check on the roof.
The resident had recently had renovations carried out on the roof.
One man went into the loft while the other male stayed downstairs with the resident.
While in the loft, a roof tile was pushed off and some felt was pulled away. The offenders asked to see the resident’s guarantee and then left stating that they would be back to mend the roof.
The resident realised that the men were not from the original roofing firm and called the police. It is not believed anything was stolen.
Anyone with information should contact Pc James Parfitt of Hungerford Neighbourhood Police team via the Thames Valley Police Enquiry Centre on 101.
Meanwhile PCSO Lee Bremner will host the next ‘Have Your Say’ meeting.
This is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, at Hungerford Tesco between 10am and 11am.