Car crime fears in Bognor

According to Inspector Clare McKnight, among the most pressing issues is tackling thefts from cars after incidents in Felpham and Middleton.

Speaking at a meeting of the Bognor Neighbourhood Watch Association, the senior Bognor officer said: "Thefts from cars have been a big problem for us, especially between the hours of 2am and 4am. We have considered deploying more resources during these hours but in doing so, thieves can hear us coming.

"We are trying to send out the message of removing valuables from cars and have been putting 'Gotcha' tags on cars which appear to have left valuables on display."

Another issue has been dealing with street drinking and people seen drinking in cars. Police confirmed they would be taking 'robust action' on such incidents which have been increasing.

Sussex Police believe the level of crime has been reduced by 20 per cent in the past five years in Bognor. But lower-level crime including thefts from non-domestic dwellings and retail shoplifting have remained a problem.

Over the past year police have continued an initiative against pick-pockets operating in the town centre. This has resulted in a campaign being launched with Tesco in which security chains and advice are offered to residents, particularly elderly people who have been victims of purse-snatching incidents.

Residents at the Neighbourhood Watch annual general meeting also raised the issue of anti-social behaviour in Bersted.

One neighbourhood watch member said: "The Trees estate is generally a peaceful place but it is spoilt as every night you see older youths who are just sitting round drinking.

"But it has been good to see some uniformed officers out patrolling the area who have been engaging with residents which makes them feel quite a lot safer."