CanalWatch scheme extended

THE  police initiative on the Lancaster Canal around Garstang, using text messaging,  has been extended to Lancaster, to counter crime on the waterway.

A CanalWatch scheme launched in April, introducing mobile phone text messaging  has been extended to cover 14 miles of the  the canal, Alan Tilbury tells us.

Popular with boaters

This text messaging service has proved popular with boaters, as well  as residents and local businesses around the canal, with 123 members having signed up to the scheme. The police, in partnership with other waterways bodies are now keen to include more boaters using the waterway.

PC Dave Shaw, Community Bat Manager for Garstang, explained:

"Following a recent meeting, which involved members of Lancaster Canal Boat Club, British Waterways and representatives from the marinas at Galgate and Glasson Dock, it was decided that it would be really beneficial if the scheme could cover the full length of the canal, which would provide more protection to current and new members."

Not only can boaters report suspicious activity, but officers can text members of the scheme of any reports of such activity or recent crimes so necessary precautions can be made to keep property safe.