Devon & Cornwall Police scheme to prevent sport club thefts

Devon & Cornwall Police have launched an enterprising new initiative in partnership with DeterTech to help prevent the scourge of burglaries at grassroots sporting clubs.

Over the past six months, 36 sports clubs in Devon and Cornwall have been the victims of thefts, with criminals specifically targeting equipment used to maintain pitches and ground infrastructure.

The idea is to provide SmartWater Kits at a discounted price, with these kits designed to provide a mark on equipment that is only detectable with specialist UV lights, enabling Police to return items to the rightful owners.

Crime Prevention Tactical Advisor at Devon & Cornwall Police, Hannah Denton, said: “Theft of tractors and mowers from sports clubs has a significant impact on the local community and it’s something we take very seriously.

“We’ve had great support from Devon Cricket Foundation’s Facilitiies and Funding Manager, Nick Goodliffe who has helped to promote this scheme to clubs across the region.

“So far, more than 60 clubs across Devon and Cornwall have signed up to the initiative and we’re hopeful that this – combined with policing tactics – will send a clear message to thieves targeting sports clubs in the force area.”

Bridestowe & Belstone Cricket club was one of the first victims of theft. Facilities Manager James Ewen said: “We were shocked to have been targeted so close to the start of the season and it had a massive financial impact on the club. It wasn't easy to replace the specialist mowers and equipment at short notice, and we are very grateful to local businesses who helped us out.

“We are particularly vulnerable due to our rural location and we were pleased to hear about the SmartWater initiative. We hope that this will deter thieves in the future along with other improved security measures such as improved locks and cameras."

Sports clubs in Devon and Cornwall who are interested in learning more about forensic marking kits should contact Crime Prevention Tactical Advisor Hannah Denton: Hannah.denton@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk