Date: 18 November 2006 14:17

Dear All

E-cops is steadily growing so why not join today. How do we find out about 
crimes in our neighbourhood? So please find listed below how you can find 
out. To view Crimes in your area please visit the following web address

www.cambs.police.uk/myneighbourhood/

Once in there either input your postcode on the left hand side or click 
through the maps to find your neighbourhood.

Once in there you will find 'Community Crime Information' on the left hand 
side of the web page and you can view more of the crime by clicking on 'more 
details' at the bottom of that box and then it allows you to be more 
specific with your search for community crime by postcode, type of crime
or date.

Cold Callers

This is a term used to describe  people who arrive at your door without an 
appointment and offer their services or trade in return for payment. I have 
been asked if you receive any such callers or flyers through your door then 
could you please let me know.My number is 01223 823730.  Please note a
few guidelines attached which may assist you.

SPOTTING 'COWBOYS' AND ROGUE TRADERS

You might receive a phone call or a knock on the door from someone 'doing 
work in your area'. Never trust this type of trader unless you can talk to 
and see the work done for a satisfied customer in your area. Flyers through 
the door may be from reputable tradesmen, but they must be checked out 
first. If you can only contact them by phone, especially a mobile, beware, 
it will be difficult for you to contact them if things go wrong. Some 
national companies do not use their own staff but rely on sub contractors. 
Imagine how difficult it must be for these companies to find reliable 
tradesmen and to remotely control them. It could mean trouble for the 
customer, so it is better to deal with companies who employ their own staff.

You are asking for trouble if you make a deal over the doorstep or in your 
living room. Inevitably you will be subjected to a very hard sell from a 
very skillful and sometimes unscrupulous sales person. They are highly 
motivated by their commission and verbal promises from them will be worth 
nothing if things go wrong later. Think before you buy - always ask 
yourself, would l have bought
this even if a doorstep salesman had not called?

FINDING SOMEONE RELIABLE

Take your time before deciding on a tradesman or company, never just give 
the work to the first person who comes along. Study adverts in your local 
newspapers or classified directories
and look for long established locally based outfits, check them out by 
asking to see examples of their work and by talking to some of their 
satisfied customers. Look at trade association lists of members or 
tradesmen.The scheme in our region is run by `Age Concern` and is titled 
"Registered Traders Scheme" and they can be contacted on 01354 696677. If 
you are or know of any tradesmen who would like to join then please contact 
number as stated. Recommendations from neighbours, friends, or relations are 
very useful.

John Reynolds