Millom & South Copeland – Neighbourhood Policing Team Newsletter
Welcome to this month’s newsletter highlighting recent activity by your local policing team.
Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee Update
Cumbria has received funding for 46 additional staff: 26 police officers, 12 PCSOs, and 8 Special Constables, nearly doubling the neighbourhood policing presence. Find out more: Cumbria Police
Operation Bologna – Targeting Drug Supply
On 11 April, Operation Bologna executed five warrants in Millom, Maryport, and Distington, targeting drug supply. A 39-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of supplying a Class B drug; released under investigation. Over 11 licensed premises were visited using drug detection dogs.
Operation Enhance – Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour
High-visibility patrols continue in hotspot areas to address anti-social behaviour and violence. Learn more: Operation Enhance
Operation Spotlight – Road Safety
Running throughout April, this operation targets the “Fatal Four”: speeding, mobile phone use at the wheel, not wearing seatbelts, and drink/drug driving. Officers are combining enforcement, engagement, and education.
You Said, We Did – Millom
- 22 April: A driver was stopped and arrested for driving over the cannabis limit following a stop on routine patrol.
- Speed checks on 20 April at The Green following local complaints; proactive monitoring continues.
- Christopher Graves, 18, from Millom, pleaded guilty on 17 April to driving over the drug limit (cannabis). Penalties: £80 victim surcharge, £85 court costs, £200 fine, 12-month driving ban.
Courier Fraud Awareness
Be wary of fraudsters posing as bank or police officials. Remember:
- Banks and police will never ask for your PIN or account details by phone.
- They will never ask you to withdraw money or send bank cards via courier or taxi.
If suspicious, hang up and call police on 101 using a different phone.
Burglaries in Ponsonby and Bootle
Several outhouse and garage burglaries have been reported; tools stolen. Suspicious white flatbed van seen nearby. Report sightings or CCTV footage online quoting incident 61 of 16 April 2025, or call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Millom Family Hub Open Day
Held on 16 April, PC Louise Stubbings spoke about how the Hub offers a neutral, welcoming space for community support, advice, and referrals. Everyone is encouraged to make use of this valuable local service.
Be Water Aware (28 April – 4 May 2025)
Remember the “Float to Live” advice:
- Tilt your head back, ears submerged
- Relax and breathe normally
- Move hands gently to stay afloat
- Spread arms and legs
- Call for help or swim to safety once calm
If someone else is in trouble: call 999, encourage them to float, and throw something that floats.
StreetSafe
Report public safety concerns anonymously, such as poorly lit areas or vandalism, via StreetSafe.
Upcoming Community Police Events
- 17 May – Millom Library, 3–4 PM
- 17 May – The Green, Thwaites Village Hall car park, 4:30–5:30 PM
- 18 May – Byre Car Park, Bootle, 3–4 PM
- 18 May – Haverigg Beach Car Park (opposite Betty’s Café), 4:30–5:30 PM
Police Recruitment
Recruitment open evenings (6–8 PM):
- 27 May – Workington
- 28 May – Penrith
- 29 May – Carlisle
- 30 May – Barrow
Explore routes: Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, Entry Programme, Professional Policing Degree Graduate, Detective Pathway, or Transferee opportunities. More details: Cumbria Police Careers
Neighbourhood Policing Expansion
£1.68 million Home Office funding will provide 46 new neighbourhood policing roles across Cumbria, including 26 police officers, 12 PCSOs, and 8 Special Constables. This investment supports visible local policing and community safety.
Reporting Incidents
For crime in progress: call 999.
Non-emergency: call 101 or report online at cumbria.police.uk/report-it.
You can also use the online Live Chat or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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