Early springtime is now upon us and a lot of people's minds turn to several seasonal topics gardens, holidays -and as the weather improves, possibly days out.
In our area, there is easy access to the countryside and a high level of footpaths. I would like to take this opportunity to remind people of their obligations when using the countryside which, like all other amenities, has to be looked after.
When crossing land stay on the designated footpaths where practicable
Do not worry or interfere with livestock or wild animals. Under no circumstances interfere with badgers or their setts, you will be breaking the law. If you see anyone else interfering with these animals or their setts call the police immediately.
Please don't drop litter, food, etc. Besides being unsightly, it can kill livestock by choking or poisoning them.
Close any gates that you pass through.
Don't climb over fences, hedges etc.
Do not, under any circumstances, interfere with or damage any water troughs, animal feeding stations etc. Someone owns them and if you damage them you are committing CRIMINAL DAMAGE.
Don't swim in ponds, water tanks etc., you don't know what's under the water or if the water is safe. Every year there are tragic cases of children drowning.
Don't shoot on any land without permission from the owner and follow the shooting safety rules.
If you see any damaged fences and the damage looks recent, report it to the farmer/landowner. This may prevent a serious accident later on.
DOGS If you have a dog with you, keep it under strict control at all times. If your dog attacks anyone or injures them in any way, you are liable in law and for civil damages. If your dog worries, interferes with, or attacks any livestock, then the farmer is legally entitled to shoot it!
DON'T PICK ANY WILD FLOWERS OR FUNGI. As the "RIGHT TO ROAM" over land is fully implemented, there will be an increase in the number of visitors walking/using the land. Some of these visitors will not know the "Country Code" and it is important that any unlawful activity is reported to the police.
RECENT CRIME PATTERNS
Criminal damage in Canon Lane is on the increase. Several vehicles have been attacked over the past few months. If the offender is identified, he or she will be prosecuted.
Crime in the area of Caldicot and Rogiet are mainly theft from vehicles, industrial burglaries and domestic burglaries. The offenders are usually drug users/addicts looking for power tools and money.
Finally, bearing these crime patterns in mind, please take extra care to ensure that your sheds and other buildings are fully secured.
I welcome all constructive comments, critical or otherwise, about my articles. If there is any aspect of general criminal law tnat you would like to know about, let me know and I will write an article on it.
A GENERAL REMINDER!
If you see any suspicious activity don't worry about 'disturbing the police'.
Please just dial Caldicot Police Station on 01291-430999 or 999 straight away. Remember, your efforts can make a real difference.
Ashley Turner
PC 737, Community Police Constable