Devon and Cornwall Police working to reduce heritage crimes

Three local organisations are working together to reduce crimes against heritage sites. 

Devon and Cornwall Police, in conjunction with Historic England and the Devon and Cornwall Community Watch Association (DACCWA) have launched Heritage Watch in Devon and Cornwall.

Heritage Watch is a national scheme for landowners, custodians and nearby residents which aims to protect historic sites in the region.

It encourages sharing of information on crime or suspicious behaviour as well as comprehensive reporting to relevant authorities. 

Heritage crime includes any action which may damage the historic site, such as removal of items, arson or criminal damage.

There are more than 35,000 designated heritage sites in Devon and Cornwall, including Blackbury Camp, Cleeve Abbey in Somerset and a mediaeval village on Dartmoor. 

Blackbury Camp is an ancient hillfort built during the 4th century BC.

PC Julian Fry, Rural Affairs Officer, Devon & Cornwall Police said: "Heritage crime is any offence that harms the value of heritage assets and their settings, such as ancient archaeological sites, churches, historic shipwrecks, stately homes and castles. 

"It can include arson, criminal damage, theft, unlawful salvage from historic shipwrecks and the trade in illicit cultural objects. 

"With around 35,000 designated heritage assets in Devon and Cornwall and many more remaining undesignated or simply waiting to be discovered, we want to protect the past for our future and by joining the scheme, people can do that."

Duncan Wilson, Historic England Chief Executive said: "By working together with communities and partners across the law enforcement and heritage sectors we can help protect our historic buildings and archaeological sites from the threat of crime and anti-social behaviour and ensure their preservation for future generations to enjoy."

You can find local sites to visit here.