Newton Aycliffe NPT Sergeant Mark Edwards continues his weekly blog on Aycliffe Today…
It’s been a short while since the last blog, but I’ve been away on some much-needed leave.
It looks like there’s been quite a bit going on in my absence, but I’ve brought myself up-to-speed with latest developments. So, that said…where are we at?
There have been and will continue to be a few changes to the make-up of the NPT here in the town. As you may know by now we have a new PCSO, Chris Noble, who has recently joined our ranks and who has primary responsibility for the Woodham area.
I am glad to say that Chris has hit the ground running and picked up the requirements of his role with ease. For those of you who reside in the Woodham area I am sure you will see him at various public forums such as PACT etc.
Our new PC, Paul Rogers, joins us this weekend and will be working alongside PCSO Scott Hodgson covering the Shafto St Mary’s ward. Over the coming weeks he will be introducing himself to members of the community.
Paul will effectively be the town centre beat officer, and I have no doubt that he will continue to build upon the strong existing links we share with local retailers and the town centre management team.
Mike Welch, Greenfield and Middridge’s PCSO, has been successful in the recent recruitment process for new Police Constables and will be departing these shores at some point in the not to distant future.
We wish him every success and hope his replacement demonstrates the drive and enthusiasm that Mike brings to his role. For now, though, enjoy him while we’ve still got him!
Our new Inspector, Mark Hall, has his feet well and truly under the NPT table and is making us earn our keep!
He is fully focused on addressing those issues impacting upon the town and his other areas of responsibility – Shildon and Sedgefield. You will even see him out and about on foot patrol – keep your eyes open!
We had a good day on Saturday (19th May) at the bike marking session in the town centre with over 55 bikes marked up during the course of the morning. Members of the team were assisted by our colleague Kelly from the Safer Neighbourhoods Unit.
May I remind everyone that we are active on Facebook and Twitter and should you wish to take a look at what the team’s up to feel free.
We try and update these sites on a regular basis however I’m sure you will appreciate that this isn’t always possible and is subject to whatever is going on at any given time in the town. I am sure you will agree that we should be out on the streets dealing with ASB and not sat in the office tweeting about it!
Our Facebook page is one of the most visited NPT pages across the County – to find out why, take a peek!
So, what else has been happening?
James Edward Pearman, 22, was convicted at Durham Crown Court recently in respect of theft-related offences and sentenced to a period of four months imprisonment.
Liam Blakey, 20, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court earlier this month charged with theft and was sentenced to a community order, meaning that he will have to attend a drug rehabilitation programme for six months alongside supervision by the Probation service.
Lee Thomas Morris, 35, appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court admitting theft offences and was ordered to pay compensation, and was also subject to a nine-month community order.
A 50-year-old male from the Fowler Road area was arrested last week in relation to the supply of controlled drugs. He was charged with the offence and will be appearing at court soon.
Thefts of and from motor vehicles continues to be a problem across the town.
Overnight from 9th May into 10th, a white Vauxhall Astra car derived van had its front driver side window smashed and entry was gained inside. A cordless drill and three toolboxes were subsequently stolen from the boot. If anyone has any information as to who may be responsible then please contact the team on 101 or alternately via Crimestoppers.
Between 5.30pm on 7th May and 9am on 8th May, a red Pickup was stolen from the rear of a commercial premises on St Cuthbert’s Way. This vehicle would have to have been towed away due to mechanical problems that prevented it from been driveable. Likewise, please contact the team with any information.
Rather than run the risk of information overload I will sign off there.
I am been seconded elsewhere for a couple of weeks therefore it will be a short while before my next blog.
The NPT are still very much active and can be contacted in the usual manner.
In my absence, any urgent queries or areas of concern that cannot be dealt with by your local ward beat Officers should be directed towards our ‘boss’ – Inspector Mark Hall.
If non-urgent I can still be reached on [email protected]
Take care everyone and I will speak to you on my return.
Be good.
Mark J Edwards
Aycliffe NPT Sergeant
Your police team is on Facebook and Twitter!
In Facebook search ‘Newton Aycliffe Neighbourhood Policing Team’
Twitter: @AycliffeNPT