Officer aims to stamp out wildlife crime

2:50pm Saturday 26th July 2008

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Craven's new wildlife crime officer PC Vanessa Bateson wants the public's help to stamp out crimes against birds and animals.

PC Bateson, who has been in the police for 11 years, is currently based in Grassington and her new role will cover the whole Craven area.

She said: "Being blessed with the fantastic countryside around us and having a natural interest in ornithology and wildlife, it was a natural progression to become involved in the prevention and detection of wildlife crime.

"My role is to deal with or advise on all aspects of crime against any form of wildlife. I am particularly interested in crimes against indigenous birds, birds of prey and all wild mammals.

"Being newly appointed, I am by no way an expert on anything. However, this role involves a multi-agency approach, so dealing with any incident is more than achievable.

"Agencies such as the RSPB, RSPCA and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority have dedicated enthusiastic employees involved in conservation and protection and in addition have a vast knowledge of species and correct procedures, "People can be incredibly cruel to wildlife and class it as sport; poisoning birds of prey who suffer a painful death leaving their starving young abandoned, destroying bat roosts, badger baiting - causing dogs and badgers to fight to the death - the collection of prohibited bird eggs, disturbance of nests, trapping wildlife illegally, poaching, importation and exportation of endangered species, the list goes on.

"The law protects against this cruelty; offenders will be prosecuted.

"I want to encourage the public to get involved. If you see anything suspicious involving wildlife crime, or anything you believe may be illegal, I urge you to come forward and inform North Yorkshire Police.

"Also, if you are aware of persons who have committed crimes in the past, please do come forward; we need your help. If you are walking in the Dales and see animals in distress in traps, or a deceased animal or bird which looks poisoned or shot, again please inform the police."

PC Bateston has issued advice for anyone who comes across a suspected scene of a crime. She says:

* do not walk about unnecessarily or move any items

* do not touch dead animals or birds you suspect have been poisoned - substances used are usually very dangerous to humans too

* if possible, photograph the scene

* do not approach any suspects

* write down suspicious vehicle registration numbers.

The number for non-emergency calls is 0845 6060 247 or you can write to Craven Wildlife Crime Officer PC1014 Vanessa Bateson, Police Station, Wood Lane, Grassington, BD23 5LU, or e-mail vanessa.bateson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.