Extra police patrols for late night shopping in Chester

Dec 12 2008 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

STREETS in Chester will be safer this Christmas thanks to extra patrols on late night shopping days.

Operation Alpine, Chester Inner Neighbourhood Policing Unit’s (NPU) winter initiative, has seen patrols dedicated to policing the city centre for the late night shopping period and ensuring visitors have a safe and pleasurable visit to the city centre.

Cheshire Police Inspector Mel Williams said: “We have put additional patrols on key evenings to provide visibility and reassurance to visitors to Chester in an effort to keep any incidents to a minimum.

“There are been a number of thefts from cars parked on car parks in the last week. Thieves have forced entry into the car and stolen Christmas presents that had just been purchased.

“Visitors are reminded to be vigilant when returning to their cars with property. Park your car in a safe, well lit place and make sure it is locked. When returning with gifts, try not to make a number of trips back and forth with your with gifts.”

Chester Inner NPU are celebrating after two men were arrested for stealing a total of 16 pedal bikes in the City Centre in the last two months.

“In recent weeks we have seen a slight increase sheds and garages being broken into in the Sealand Road area and bicycles being targeted.” Added Inspector Williams.

“Keep your buildings locked and consider marking your cycles with your postcode so they can be returned to you if ever stolen.

“It must be stressed that any incidents must be reported to the police – if not reported we cannot deal with them.”

Chester Inner NPU can be contacted on 0845 458 6384 or by email to Chester.inner.cat@cheshire.pnn.police.uk.