SOMERSET NEWS: No cold calling zones introduced

A MAJOR clampdown on cold callers in the Highbridge area has seen six new ‘no cold calling’ zones introduced with plans to target the whole town.

The Burnham and Highbridge Neighbourhood Policing Team has worked with Sedgemoor District Council to install the new signs. This was designed to complement the on-going ‘Street a Week’ project which is currently running throughout the Highbridge area near to Burnham-on-Sea.

Sedgemoor District Council raised the funds to help purchase the relevant signs and stickers so the zones can clearly be identified.

PHOTO – RIGHT: PCSO Sam Piers and PC Adrian Jones install new signs.

Each household has been given a window sticker to display which states cold callers are not welcome. Advice has also been given on setting up password systems with utility companies. 

PCSO Sam Piers said: “For the scheme to be successful residents need to make a stand together. Saying no to cold callers will reduce the chances falling victim to distraction burglaries and bogus callers.”

“Distraction Burglaries are rare, but surveys have shown over 95% of people do not want traders knocking on their doors. Most people are able to contact traders directly if they need work doing.”

A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council said: “Anything we can do to reassure residents against cold callers is most welcome and we urge cold callers to take heed.”

The new “no cold caller” zones are as follows: Worston Road, Oldway Place, Jasmine Close, Field Way, Lobelia Close, Elder Close and Parnell   Way.

The ‘Street a Week scheme’ has been hugely successful and was set up to proactively raise awareness on how residents can protect their property and look after their neighbourhood. So far 800 houses in Highbridge have received crime prevention information and property marking pens.

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