Hello again, as some of you may be aware, our Safer Neighbourhood Sgt, Sgt Garry Ridler, has now moved to pastures anew. At this time (October 2008) we do not have a replacement, but one should be in place by the time the Beacon is published.
        We are now on the run up to the festive season and as dark nights are now upon us I felt it best to explain some of the things I and my partners will be concentrating on.
        From November, we will be initiating a campaign with regards to the misuse of pedal cycles in the town. Contrary to popular belief it is an offence to ride a pedal cycle on the footpath, or riding at night without lights. Unfortunately, some people are now using footpaths as cycle routes. Whilst we accept some riders find using their bikes on the road intimidating, it is not an acceptable practice to ride on the footpath. Use of pedal cycles on footpaths causes obvious dangers to all pedestrians as well as cyclists themselves. The use of pedal cycles at night without lights also has obvious dangers to all road users. Whilst we would prefer to educate, it has become apparent that some people are regularly ignoring our warnings. As such we will be prosecuting offenders who come to our attention.
        With the festive season rapidly approaching, I would like to remind people to be mindful of security, both of their homes and their cars. Unfortunately, the criminal fraternity are aware that a lot of money is being spent at this time of year. Whilst incidents of burglary and car crime are low in the area, there is the obvious temptation by criminals to target homes and vehicles at this time of year. Please do not make their lives easy. Do not leave articles on open display in your vehicles whilst out shopping and remember to keep your homes secure. It is amazing how many victims neglect the simple precautions that can be made which will stop these offences occurring.
        Since the start of the school Autumn term we have been giving a number of presentations at Lady Lumley’s School entitled “The Anti-Social Road Show”. The vast majority of young people in the town are law abiding and considerate. Our aim in giving these talks, has been to strengthen our links with the young people in the town – to make them aware of the consequences should they become involved in anti-social behaviour.
        We will be continuing with our series of mobile surgeries at The Ropery car park on 8th and 30th December, please feel free to come and speak to us.
        Finally, just to remind everyone, we can be contacted in various ways: by telephone on 0845 6060 247 or 07966432742 (non emergency); email on: ryedalenpt@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk  or just stop us and say hello. We do not bite!

PC554 Paul Storey.