Police warning over Easter car crime and off-roading on Quantock Hills

POLICE are asking Easter visitors to the Quantock Hills to take simple measures to avoid becoming a victim of car crime.
They are also taking the opportunity to remind owners of all 4x4 vehicles, quad bikes, and motorcycles that all tracks across the Quantock Hills are now out of bounds to unauthorised vehicles.
Police Community Support Officer for the Quantock Hills, Eamonn Leniston, said: “As Easter approaches, the lighter nights and warmer days mean that more people are out walking on the Quantock Hills and visiting natural beauty spots, and therefore are parking their cars in the area.
“We are reminding visitors to make sure they remove property from display in vehicles, lock their car, and keep their belongings safe.
“It Is a simple message - if your property is not on display, the thief will see nothing to steal and walk on by.
“The vast majority of thefts from cars are opportunistic - the thief sees your sat nav on the dashboard, or bag on the back seat, breaks your window, and takes it.
“This is a message we have been pushing out for a long, long time but it does not get through.
“Time and time again we have thefts reported to us of property which has been left on display in your car.
“This is a crime which is so easy to prevent but this is not something the police can do on our own.
“Regular patrols on the hills are made and vehicles are checked. If we find vehicles which are vulnerable we will contact you.”
PCSO Leniston also pointed out it was an offence to use a mechanically-driven vehicle off-road anywhere on the Quantock Hills unless authorised, such as land owners and those who have the land owner’s permission.
He said: “People who tend their livestock are also entitled to use the off-road tracks.
“However, there are still individuals who persist in doing so for recreational purposes and there is a minority who cause alarm and distress to other visitors to the hills.
“Should you witness any offending vehicles, please contact us on 0845 456 7000 - always use 999 in an emergency - or via the force website at http://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/.
“Anybody who can help should contact us through our secure Crimestoppers contact form at https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crimestoppers/ContactForm.aspx.
“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. You do not have to give your name and you could receive a reward.”
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