Crimestoppers’ campaign backed by water company

BOURNEMOUTH & West Hampshire Water (BWHW) has thrown its weight behind a campaign aimed at cracking down on doorstep crime.

The company has joined forces with Dorset Crimestoppers to publicise the charity’s freephone number - 0800 555111 – for people who may have information about bogus callers.

BWHW has agreed to fix stickers displaying the Crimestoppers’ number on about 100 of its vehicles.

It follows a request by Richard Daubeney, Chairman of Dorset Crimestoppers, who is spearheading a campaign with Dorset Police against criminals who prey on the elderly.

He said: “We want to bring to justice criminals who target the elderly in their homes, stealing their cash and valuables.

“We’re very grateful to Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water for agreeing to publicise the phone number of Crimestoppers on its vans.”

Tony Cooke, BWHW’s Managing Director, said: “Distraction burglary, so often under the premise of calling for the 'water board' is a despicable crime which targets those least able to protect themselves.

“We will do anything to help reduce it and this is just one initiative with that aim."