Tyre slashing and thefts among crimes reported in Westbury

Nine incidents of criminal damage and 12 thefts were reported in Westbury over five weeks, according to the latest update from the Westbury Neighbourhood Policing Team.

The figures cover the period from 1st September to 5th October and include reports of vehicle tyres being slashed on Amazon Way.

Police said four vehicle-related offences were recorded during the period, including the theft of number plates in Westbury Leigh and a break-in to a vehicle in the town, in which a handbag containing cash, a mobile phone and bank cards was stolen.

A vehicle was also reported stolen from Westbury Trading Estate.

Police said there had been no reported burglaries in Westbury town centre and one reported antisocial behaviour incident, involving a neighbour dispute.

The Neighbourhood Policing Team has warned people against parking on Amazon Way, where the road remains unadopted and is not under the care of Wiltshire Council.

A spokesperson said, “Our advice to those who use this area to park their vehicles rather than at the railway station, is to cease parking at this location as it is unsuitable; the road has not been built for parking, it is causing incoming and outgoing vehicles, mainly residents, to have reduced overview of the junction which is increasing the chances of a road traffic collision.

“Further to this, children cannot be seen when crossing the road due to height of the parked vehicles and the sheer number parked at the location – there are little to no alternative routes for pedestrians to cross.”

Meanwhile, officers have been carrying out high-visibility foot patrols around Westbury, including at local schools, where they are working with staff to address concerns and provide reassurance.

As part of a local policing team reshuffle, PCSO Revers will now cover Westbury town centre, while PCSO Alice Moore has moved from Westbury Rural to cover Mere and Tisbury.

Residents can contact the team at WarminsterAreaNPT@wiltshire.police.uk or report crimes through Wiltshire Police’s online reporting portal.