Cumbrians urged to 'shine a light' on wildlife crime as new county-wide campaign launches (From The Westmorland Gazette)
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Cumbrians urged to 'shine a light' on wildlife crime as new county-wide campaign launches
4:53pm Monday 21st January 2013 in News
CUMBRIA’s new wildlife officer has urged the public to ‘shine a light’ on rural and environmental crime as she gets to grips with her new role.
PC Helen Felton, who was appointed last month, wants Cumbrians to report any suspicious activity in their area.
Cumbria Police's ‘shine a light’ campaign highlights exactly what information can assist police and other agencies.
PC Felton said: “Cumbria is one of the most beautiful counties in England and home to an extensive variety of wildlife and diverse habitats that millions of visitors enjoy every year.
“Unfortunately there are people who are prepared to commit crime against wildlife and, as a result, we are appealing for the public’s help.
“We are committed to stopping the cruelty and suffering inflicted on our wildlife by individuals who participate in this type of crime.
“We want to remind the community that they are vital in providing us with information.
“They know when something is out of the ordinary in their own community.
“You may see something which in isolation may not appear important but we encourage you to call us, it may provide the missing link in a wider enquiry.
“It is a challenge to police this issue in such a large, rural county but with the assistance of local residents, landowners and the many agencies responsible for protecting our environment and wildlife we can work together to stop this type of crime.”
As a wildlife crime officer, PC Felton works with local agencies like the West Cumberland Deer Management Group, The Osprey Project, the RSPB and Natural England.
Posters and leaflets are being displayed around the county to highlight the new campaign.
And PC Felton is keeping the county updated via Twitter at www.twitter.com/WildlifeCrimeOf
For more information on wildlife crime visit www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/wildlife-rural-crime/wildlife-crime
