Each month the police let the Parish and me know the latest crime figures, usually these are very low, as few as 5 incidents a month, a very occasional burglary or car crime but usually associated with the pubs. September was very different, the total number of crimes jumped to 24, more than Bovingdon, with 1 house and 10 other garage and shed type burglaries and 6 car crimes.

Our police constable has informed me that an individual has been arrested in conjunction with the Chipperfield spree and senior officers and additional support have been drafted in to focus on the villages and the rural area. This is hugely reassuring and I have had the same message from officers covering Sarratt.

The recession brings many challenges, this is one of them. Please follow Neighbourhood watch advice and check your own property’s security. The advice from the police is to report strange behaviour, especially if involving vehicles; on the following numbers -

Safer Neighbourhood team: 01442 271636

Crime stoppers: 0800555111

Chipperfield is still very safe but we need to be vigilant and do contact the local police team, which includes Bardy our police support officer, if you have concerns.