THE first of many multi-agency operations to tackle house burglaries and scrap metal thefts has been hailed as a success by police.

Felsted saw an increased police presence as officers looked to identify criminals as well as offer crime prevention advice to residents and motorists.

Officers from Uttlesford’s Neighbourhood Policing Team joined forced with officials from the Environment Agency to conduct stop-checks on vehicles travelling through the village. Highly-visible police patrols also took to the area.

PCSOs took to Felsted’s streets, checking on the security of nearly 400 residential properties and 55 vehicles. Any identified vulnerabilities were reported to the owners and appropriate crime prevention advice given.

Operational co-ordinator Sgt Martin Richards said: “We plan to conduct similar operations in neighbouring villages during the next few weeks and months as we look to target criminals who cause a misery to residents and motorists in the Uttlesford district while at the same time continuing to provide crime prevention advice to those living, working and travelling through the area.”

Over 500 vehicles passed through the specially-designated ANPR cameras, with 15 vehicles being physically stop-checked. One motorist was issued a fixed penalty notice for a defective number plate while another is being prosecuted for failing to tax their vehicle.

They also distributed Halloween window posters to those residents who do not want to participate in the forthcoming celebrations. Anyone wanting a poster should call the neighbourhood policing teams at either Saffron Walden (07779 037084) or Dunmow (07989 174801).