Protect our plots plea as Wirral Allotment Watch scheme is launched

Feb 24 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Birkenhead News

A “Home Watch”-style security scheme is being launched to protect Wirral allotments from theft and vandalism.

The secluded nature of many of the borough’s allotments means many have become a target for crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Allotment Watch scheme is being launched jointly by Merseyside Police, Wirral Community Safety Team and Wirral Council to encourage allotment users to pass information on to police about any criminal activity on the sites and for officers to support people with crime prevention advice.

Gardeners are also being encouraged to have their property on allotments marked by Smart Water, an invisible, indelible liquid allowing the owner of recovered stolen property to be identified.

Plot holders can buy Smart Water for £15 and it can also be used on property in their homes.

Barbara Higson, chairman of the Wirral Federation of Allotment Societies, said: “This is a positive move. I hope allotments associations who don’t become part of Allotment Watch will at least take up Smart Water to protect their equipment – I know many already have.

“Hopefully it will help to reduce thefts from allotments.”