Neighbourhood Watch Network Advice

Remember - Leave your car:

> Locked   A simple mistake that can prove calamitous: 44% of cars are broken into via an unlocked door. Leave your car locked video.

> Lit 80% of car crime occurs during the evening or at night. Parking near street lamps or in a busy area can deter thieves. Leave your car lit video.

> Empty (or with no items on show)  Owners often forget that personal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itself.   Leave your car empty video.

Gradual easing of restrictions for locals begins next week but plea for Tourists to abide by the rules and stay away until 12th April.
Residents are also being encouraged to lead by example ahead of the tourist season and respect the beautiful countryside and parks that surround us here in Devon. As part of the “Clean Devon” campaign people are being reminded to dispose of all litter and waste responsibly in bins provided or take it back home to be dealt with there. The Countryside and wildlife have benefited from the quieter periods during the pandemic and plastic pollution has been well documented in recent TV programmes and campaigns. Much of the work in raising awareness of pollution has originated here in Devon with Westward Ho! becoming the first Town to ban the sale of cheap plastic bodyboards ahead of the summer season.
Steve Hearse – Chief Executive of Torridge District Council said:
“While locals will welcome the unveiling of some of our facilities our message to would be tourists to the area is to stay local to their own home locations for the time being. While we are in a better place than we were last year our plea is for everyone to continue to act responsibly so we don’t jeopardise the summer, which will be so important to our battered tourism sector. Our Holiday destinations, hotels and restaurants and entertainment places are still closed to all but takeaway meals and while they are busy getting ready to welcome everyone back this shouldn’t be until after Easter on 12th April. 
“Residents can also play a part by remembering that no vaccine can be 100% effective and people should continue to follow the guidelines and stay at home as much as possible and continue to avoid contact when out and about.”

While Covid case numbers have dropped to levels allowing the Government to make these changes, Covid is still very active in many communities, with continued sporadic outbreaks and Torridge Council’s message is still one of caution. Despite the relaxing of some rules the advice from the NHS is for people to continue to wear face masks where directed and for frequent hand washing and ongoing vigilance whether vaccinated or not. 

The government’s roadmap for opening can be found here Coronavirus (COVID-19) - Northam Town Council.