Boatwatch tackles marine crime

Boatwatch tackles marine crime

Police say 36 crimes were reported along the Humber estuary

A new scheme is being launched in the Humber region to tackle the growing problem of marine crime.

The Boatwatch initiative has been set up after 36 offences were reported along the Humber estuary in 2002.

These included the theft of motors, fuel, internal equipment, and in one incident, a boat was stolen.

It is hoped Boatwatch will work like a neighbourhood watch scheme, with boat owners becoming more aware of strangers or any suspicious activity.

Owners fill in a registration form with details of the boat's name, number, and the serial numbers of any equipment on board.

The information is then recorded on a computer database held by Humberside Police.

Once registered, boat owners will be given a sticker to display on their boats showing they are a member of the scheme.

Anyone who would like to join the initiative should contact their local marine office or police station.