Police Operation Dasher goes into action to protect residents and retailers as Christmas approaches

Marlborough police have announced the launch of Operation Dasher, a comprehensive bid by the neighbourhood policing team to target local crime and anti-social behaviour during the run-up to the annual Christmas festivities.

And the operation, which includes giving out crime prevention advice to residents and retailers alike, has been applauded by Marlborough’s Chamber of Commerce’s new president, Alex Minoudis.

“We support any effort to protect the town’s retailers, and those who come to our town to shop, from criminals during the busy Christmas period,” he told Marlborough News Online.

“Furthermore, we are delighted to see action being taken to tackle anti social behaviour during the night hours — trouble which often leads to expense and inconvenience for our members in the form of damage to property.

“We applaud the Operation Dasher initiative, and look

forward to seeing an increased police presence on our streets during this busy period.”

Police Sergeant Barry Reed revealed: “The operation has different strands during December, essentially it is about making people safe, whether it is personal safety or that of their property.

“We are working alongside our partner agencies and stakeholders, such as Fire Service, promoting their “Fire Stop” campaign, Marlborough Chamber of Commerce to prevent and detect retail crime, and the local public houses to reduce drunken and disorderly behaviour.

“Operation Dasher is about making the lead up to Christmas an enjoyable time, where the community can go about their business without fear of crime or anti-social behaviour.  “Unfortunately, the reality is criminal’s thrive at this time of year, so Operation Dasher gives us opportunities to provide crime prevention advice as well as providing an increased high visibility presence.”

This week the neighbourhood police team are carrying out public consultations at Marlborough’s town markets — both Wednesday and Saturday — where crime prevention advice will be available.  

The police Facebook site is also being updated with details from other agencies to promote their key messages, the current message is about ‘Surviving Winter Grants’ directed at the elderly or those on low income, and details how to claim grants.

Marlborough NPT can be contacted on 101, or via email

marlboroughnpt@wiltshire.pnn.police.uk

Facebook- Marlborough Neighbourhood Policing Team