Farm raids spark Homewatch plea

HOUSEHOLDERS in isolated communities are being urged to join a Homewatch scheme following an attempted farm break-in.

Three raiders tried to force their way into a farm at Platting Road, Scouthead on December 22 and were scared off by the owner’s gun

Police sealed off the road while officers searched the area with a force helicopter.

The raid came in the wake of a series of bizarre thefts from Saddleworth farms, in which animals were slaughtered and dismembered in fields and their carcasses removed in freezer vans.

The National Farmers Union urged members to join Farm Watch in a bid to foil attacks.

Now Royce Franklin, chair of Saddleworth Homewatch, is urging more residents to join the scheme.

He said: “There is no doubt Homewatch prevents crime. Those in any scheme are expected to be vigilant — not nosey — and to be alert to the possibility of crime at all times.

“We bring neighbours together to create strong, friendly, active communities where crime and anti-social behaviour are less likely to happen.”

Anyone interested in joining should call Royce Franklin on 01457-873 248 or email royce.franklin1@btinternet.com.