The Burglar Bar is coming to Tamworth this week and residents will be able to see what makes a burglars perfect cocktail and how to avoid becoming a victim of crime. This is an initiative by the Tamworth Community Safety Partnership to reduce burglaries in people’s homes and by adopting some simple straightforward measures residents could save themselves the considerable grief and heartache of having their valuable possessions stolen. Attacks on insecure homes are particularly prevalent during the warm weather when residents leave windows and doors open.

As part of the campaign the Tamworth Community Safety partnership will be using a shop in Ankerside Shopping Centre to promote keeping residents homes safe and secure. There will be a window display from Monday 29 June to Saturday 11 July inclusive and an open day will be held on Tuesday 7 July when members of the public will be able to talk to agencies direct and get advice and information about how not to be an easy target for burglars.

“The Tamworth Burglar Bar will show the public what makes a "Burglars' Dream". . .a heady mix of unlocked doors, open windows and items on show” said Dave Fern, Community Safety Manager. “Insecure burglaries remain high across Tamworth, and there are simple steps that residents can take to avoid being the victim of crime. Simple things like remembering to lock your back door and don’t leave windows open when you leave the house. These simple steps can avoid the heart ache and inconvenience of losing your most valuable possessions. Most thieves are looking for an opportunity, and it is down to us to make sure that we do not give them one.”

Quotes from convicted burglars when asked about why they make a career out of stealing from peoples homes include:

“They don’t need the money, we do.”

“We are professional criminals who only get caught when we get stupid.”

“They don’t need the money where as we do. They don’t spend it, that’s why it’s hidden away. They don’t need it.”

“Old people living alone are best, but I have done many a couple and some young ones as well.”

“The best place is in the bedroom they sleep in. You look for the locked drawer or cupboard or wardrobe.”

Top tips to help prevent your home being burgled:

• Make sure all doors and windows are locked, even when you are in the house.
• Don’t leave your valuables on show.
• Keep your front garden tidy so that it looks occupied.
• If you go on holiday make sure you cancel your milk and paper deliveries and ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your property.

The shop will be where the Works used to be located at the entrance to Ankerside Shopping Centre. If you would like more information about the Tamworth Community Safety Partnership visit the Community Safety pages. If you would like details of crime in your neighbourhood and to have direct access to the Police and your local council consider joining Neighbourhood Watch for more information contact Don Palmer on 01785 234654.