Rural crime high on the agenda for Special Constables

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Special Constables from Wiltshire Police were given the opportunity to learn about rural crime at Lackham College, Wiltshire. The event, held in early September, was organised by PC Mark Jackson from the Rural Crime Team, and gave the 12 Special Constables the chance to learn more about the work of gamekeepers and the legislation surrounding their work. The impact rural crime has on the agricultural industry was also discussed.


The day began with an overview of the work of the Rural Crime Team within Wiltshire, while the remainder of the day was led by Tim Weston from the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation. 


PC Jackson said the event was a huge success. "This was a fantastic opportunity for the Specials Constables to get an understanding of rural crime and the effects it has on the communities within Wiltshire," he said.


"This was the first of a number of awareness workshops given by the Rural Crime Partnership. I am very thankful to Ian Revill for allowing us to use the venue at Lackham College and Tim Weston for presenting the course. 



"Poaching in particular has, and continues to be, a major concern for farmers and gamekeepers across Wiltshire, and the lasting effects it has on these industries cannot be underestimated. Being able to give officers the opportunity to understand the techniques and types of poaching, enables them to make better decisions out on the ground in the fight against rural crime.”


During the day, the Specials learnt about the history and role of a gamekeeper, the legislation around poaching, hare coursing and types of legal shooting. They also had the chance to see and handle various types of traps and snares, as well as some of the items seized by the Rural Crime Team during some of their many investigations.

Special Superintendent Scott Bateman added: "I was really pleased that officers from the Special Constabulary were able to become involved in this training. "Wiltshire is a rural county so it is important that we have officers with the skills, training and knowledge to tackle crime in our most rural communities.

"I had the opportunity to attend a small part of the training this weekend and was staggered at the financial impact a small amount of anti-social behaviour by the minority can have on the people who depend on the countryside for their livelihood. Armed with our new knowledge and skills we are establishing a specialist group within the Special Constabulary to support the Rural Crime Team and their important work within the community. “Special Constables are valued members of the Force, and Wiltshire Police is committed to offering opportunities for officers to increase their knowledge of policing and their specialist skills.”

This media release was prepared by Wiltshire Police.

Picture caption: The NGO’s Southern Development Officer, Tim Weston, demonstrates how a trap works.

Notes to Editors

The National Gamekeepers' Organisation represents the gamekeepers of England and Wales. It defends and promotes gamekeeping, gamekeepers and ensures high standards throughout the profession. It was founded in 1997 by a group of gamekeepers who felt that their profession was threatened by public misunderstanding and poor representation. The NGO has around 15,000 members.