Here is your latest update from PCSO Rich Osborn
Neighbourhood team changes
PCSO Zack Earl has left Thames Valley Police and has taken up a position as a PC in the British Transport Police, so if you are traveling on the train between Oxford and Reading you might bump in to him! I will be looking after Kennington, Radley and South Hinksey until a new PCSO is appointed. I can be contacted using the details at the bottom of this page.
Cycling on the pavement
I have had reports of cycling on the pavements in Kennington. Cyclists should not be on the pavement (unless it is a cycle lane that is marked with signage and floor markings).
The Highway Code rules 59-82 states that cyclists must:
• Obey all traffic signs and traffic light signals
• Have a front white and rear red light lit in the hours of darkness, flashing lights are permitted but a steady front light is preferable for seeing the road ahead
• Have a rear red reflector fitted
Cyclists must not:
• Ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner
• Ride when under the influence of drink or drugs, including medicine
• Cross the stop line when traffic lights are red. Some junctions have an advanced stop line to enable cyclists to wait and position themselves ahead of other traffic
I have a pamphlet called “Advice for Cyclists and their Fellow Road Users” that covers this in more and are available from me at the below email address.
Phoning the Police
Our call handing teams are receiving a large number of calls and many of them are not police related. 999 is an emergency number so please think:
• Is it an emergency?
• Is it a police matter?
If it is not an emergency please call 101. Other agencies would also be better suited to deal with some issues. For example you should contact Environmental Health for noise issues, Trading Standards for rogue traders and the Highway Department for pot holes etc. Finally if a car is parked on a road, and as long as it is taxed, insured and has a valid MOT and is not causing an obstruction or going against any parking restrictions (like yellow lines) it will be parked legally. Feel free to email me using the address at the bottom of the page if you would like to discuss anything.
PCSO recruitment
PCSOs are the face of the Police providing a highly visible presence on the streets of our communities. TVP are currently recruiting PCSOs. Please visit www.thamesvalley.police.uk/joinus for more information about the role and how to apply!
Contact us
If you want any advice or would like to contact the neighbourhood team you can call us on the police non-emergency number 101 or if it is an emergency then dial 999. You can also contact us via email . Please note this email address cannot be used to contact Thames Valley Police to report crimes or for any urgent matters. To view information on your neighbourhood team visit the Thames Valley Police website at: www.thamesvalley.police.uk. Receive free local crime alerts and crime prevention advice by registering at www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk today. This allows anyone who signs up to choose what updates they receive and how they would like to receive it.
