Westgate on Sea- Policing update

Westgate on Sea- Policing update

Dear residents of Westgate on Sea,

     This week has been highly productive for policing in the town, with some noteworthy results which are explored below. Crucial to our success this week has been community engagement, with some invaluable intelligence being provided by members of the public and businesses. This highlights that when communities direct us to their problems, we can deliver some great results and reduce the likelihood of further offending.  

     On Tuesday 6th October 2026 I arrested an individual for two counts of shoplifting from a retail premises in Westgate on Sea. I had reviewed the CCTV provided by the store the day prior and positively identified him from the footage. I was supported in his arrest by colleagues from the Neighbourhood Policing Team. The investigation has been progressed by our Victim Based Crime Team resulting in two charges and the individual being bailed to appear at court. 

    On Saturday 10th October 2026 I was joined by several officers conducting a plain clothes operation targeting off road motorcycles and e-bikes at the Lymington Road Recreational Ground. This has been a frequent source of complaints from residents rightly highlighting their concern about road and pedestrian safety. We seized an electric powered motorcycle from one individual for no insurance (valued at approximately £1000) having been seen driving along Lymington Road before entering the recreational ground. This vehicle had been seen several times by me previously around Station Road and Sea Road before making off, so was clearly being used regularly.

With kindest regards

PC Steven England