HOUSEHOLDERS LIVING in isolated communities have sparked fresh interest in Homewatch after a daring night-time raid at a Lydgate farm.
Three attackers who tried for force entry into the premises at Platting Road werescared off after the owner warned he had a gun then fired warning shots over their heads.
The attack brought the community to a standstill as police sealed off the road while officers searched fields and lanes, backed by a force helicopter.
The raid came in the wake of a series of bizarre attacks at Saddleworth farms where high-valued sheep were slaughtered in fields and their carcasses removed in freezer vans.
That led to warnings from the National Farmers Union which is now urging locals to join Farm Watch in a bid to foil attacks.
And residents living in Saddleworth are making enquiries to the police and localHomewatch coordinators about protecting their community.
Royce Franklin, chair of Saddleworth Homewatch, said: “There is no doubtHomewatch prevents crime.
“Those in any scheme are expected to be vigilant – not nosey – and to be alert to the possibility of crime at all times.
“To start a scheme, ideally neighbours would get together initially and have input from PCSOs and myself about what is expected of them.
“They need to appoint a co-ordinator, who will be responsible for contact with others in the scheme to inform them of crimes committed and other relevant issues.”
He added: “Our mission statement is to bring neighbours together to create strong, friendly, active communities where crime and anti-social behaviour are less likely to happen.”
Saddleworth Homewatch meetings are held every two months at the UppermillConservative Club, with a speaker on crime related issues as well as regular crime prevention tips.
If you are interested please contact PCSOs Monica Seville (monica.seville@gmp.police.uk) or Kath Crompton (kath.crompton@gmp.police.uk) on 0161 856 4523 or Royce Franklin (royce.franklin1@btinternet.com) on 01457873248.
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