March 2004

GLASGOW BEARSDEN & MILNGAVIE FORECOURT WATCH

 

 

An initiative set to reduce crime in filling station forecourts was launched in Bearsden last week. Strathclyde Police officers from Milngavie joined representatives of the British Oil Security Syndicate (B.O.S.S.) at the newly revamped BP Canniesburn filling station in Maryhill Road, Bearsden as part of the successful Forecourt Watch.

 

The scheme targets repeat drive-off offenders, and prevents forecourt and associated crime through the sharing of good practice and criminal intelligence.

 

Community Safety Officer Mark Lundie of Milngavie Police Office said: "With a wide variety of merchandise now on sale, petrol stations have become an important community facility and Police, BOSS and the Petrol Retailers are working in partnership to make them safer places for staff and customers alike".

 

Kevin Eastwood, Executive Director of the British Oil Security Syndicate explained: "It is well known that criminals who drive off without paying for fuel are often involved in other types of crime. Forecourt Watch not only reduces forecourt crime, but can assist Police in reducing more serious forms of crime, as well as making petrol station shops safer for both staff and the community".

 

Formed in 1991 by the oil industry BOSS is steered and funded by the leading petroleum companies. BP, Esso, Shell Texaco and Total are members. It is supported by the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA), the United Kingdom Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA), the Association of Payment Clearing Services (APACS) and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO)

 

The aim of the organisation is to reduce the amount of crime taking place on Britain's service stations.