New text number to combat rural crime - 81819

Avon and Somerset Police have launched a new text service to help them prevent and detect rural crime.

They are asking rural communities and businesses to help them by providing information and intelligence about suspected crime in their area. The new number will allow the public to text information directly to the Rural Crime Team, who will be able to assess and action the intelligence quickly and efficiently.

The number won’t be monitored 24/7 but the team will be looking at it when they are on duty. It therefore shouldn’t be used for reporting crimes or anything which requires an immediate police attendance. In those circumstances please dial 999.

The new number is 81819, please text the police any information you believe could either help prevent or detect a crime in your area. You can still pass on information via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. They never ask your name or trace your call.

You can read more about the new service on the Avon and Somerset website.