New way to stamp out crime (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

New way to stamp out crime

4:16pm Tuesday 11th April 2006 in Devizes By Lewis Cowen

DEVIZES police have recruited the help of local businesses to improve the way they glean information from members of the public.

Roses the Ironmongers on the Green have sponsored post boxes that have been set up in local stores so that people with information or suggestions they feel the police ought to have can provide it in a confidential way.

It is stressed that it is not for reporting crime, which should be done by ringing 0845 408 7000.

PC Emma Brown pioneered the system in Marlborough and is now looking forward to a similar good feedback in Devizes.

She said: "It has worked very well in Marlborough and we are now trying it in Devizes.

"We have been delighted at the way the business community has come to our aid.

"People should feel free to use it as an open suggestion box. We welcome suggestions about community initiatives or information about anti-social behaviour."

The boxes will be set up in next two or three weeks at Sainsbury's store in the town centre, the Spar Shop in Bath Road, Hillworth Stores in Hillworth Road and the One Stop Shop in Eastleigh Road.