Ian Ford is sector inspector of the Huntingdon area for Cambridgeshire Police. He will be giving regular updates on activities in and around the town.

On Wednesday, October 26 the latest Huntingdon Area Neighbourhood Forum took place at Pathfinder House, Huntingdon.

During the course of the meeting several guest speakers gave interesting presentations surrounding a wide range of topics including, the future of Huntingdon fire station, the development of Huntingdon town centre, hate crime awareness and a review of stroke services locally.

The new policing priorities were decided for the Oxmoor / Hartford and also the Huntingdon and district neighbourhood areas being:

Oxmoor / Hartford

• cycle theft

• criminal damage, vehicle theft and anti-social behaviour (ASB) in Thongsley, Saunders Close and The Whaddons

Huntingdon and district

• cycle theft

• violence and ASB in the High Street relating to the night time economy

• parking issues in Euston Street, Ingram Street and Montagu Road

As you can see cycle crime features as a priority across both policing areas due to the increase in thefts which has been experienced over the past few months.

Crime reduction and enforcement activity in relation to cycle theft has already started although there will be a lot more targeted work aimed at tackling the problem and bringing offenders to justice over the next few weeks.

We have noticed that some people are still not taking basic precautions in terms of securing their property, making it very easy for opportunist thieves to strike.

I would encourage all cycle owners to ensure their property is secured by a strong lock fixed to an immovable object when left unattended (including if left in a garden), their property is marked and consideration is given to photographing it.

This makes its identification and return easier should it be stolen. Consider registering your property on www.immobilise.com.

If you have information about any crime please contact the neighbourhood policing team on 101 or you can provide information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you wish to learn more about your local policing team or receive regular e-mail updates via E-cops visit the Cambridgeshire Constabulary website at www.cambs.police.uk