Poaching crackdown cuts crime along Christchurch rivers (From Bournemouth Echo)

Poaching crackdown cuts crime along Christchurch rivers

8:00am Friday 29th January 2010

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A CRACKDOWN against poaching along an improved section of the River Avon in Christchurch has led to a dramatic reduction in crime at the scenic spots.

Over the past year Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water (BWHW) along with Dorset Police have stepped up patrols on the River Stour up to Tuckton, parts of the River Avon and Christchurch harbour as part of an anti-poaching campaign.

And the combined extra bailiff patrols along the various stretches of waterway have led to a reduction in most aspects of marine crime including thefts from boats and moorings to illegal fishing and the theft of fish.

BWHW decided not to renew Christchurch Angling Club’s lease for running parts of the Lower Stour and Christchurch in December, saying they wanted more control over matters which directly affected them.

Mike Rhodes, property and recreation services manager at BWHW, said: “We want to increase the presence of our staff down there to keep acts including vandalism and illegal fishing right down.

“As well as proving effective in reducing crime, residents who live along the river are also hopefully reassured by our presence.”

PC Joel Brooks from Christchurch Police said: “The extra patrols have certainly had an effect on reducing crime in the harbour and rivers and along with these continuing and the public’s support, we can continue to make Christchurch a great place to be.”

PC Brooks is urging anyone who sees anything suspicious to contact Dorset Police on 01202 222222 or email him on joel.brooks@dorset.pnn.police.uk

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