There has been a change in personnel with North Richmond Police gaining three new members and issuing an autumn update to residents.

The new team comprises constables Kate Whitaker and Richard Valiant, two experienced ex-response team officers and PCSO Luke Rolt.

"We are all very keen to take on North Richmond and are passionate about keeping the ward safe," they said in their first newsletter. "Former ward officers PC Simon Amor and PC Victoria Currie have moved onto other roles within Richmond borough."

In the newsletter they discuss the crime issues they've been focussing on. "One of our main focusses was to try and tackle the anti-social behaviour repots around the Raleigh Road Rec.

"We carried out a successful drugs warrant at a nearby address; secured a rapid-deployment camera following a successsful bid to the council and increased the frequency of our foot, cycle and mobile patrols. We have seen a drastic reduction in calls to the area since."

Catalytic converter thefts

They continue to say there's been a rise in thefts of catalytic converters, mostly from public car parks but also on residential streets.

Residents should consider prevention measures such as 'catlocks', CCTV cameras and tilt alarms, the police said.

Distraction burglaries

"Sadly we have seen two distraction burglaries this week on Lower Mortlake Road where 2x men posing as council workers wanting to check a water leak from the flat above.

"Please be mindful of people at the door, keep an eye on your vulnerable neighbours. Always check ID, and consider a chain on the door while you speak to the caller.

"Legitimate workers will not mind waiting while you verify they are who they say they are!"

How to contact the local police

North Richmond Police can be reached on 07879 433390, by emailing [email protected] and they're on both Twitter and Facebook.

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