Businesses, community and religious groups in Bradford are being asked to take part in an audit which will help shape the district's strategy in tackling crime.

The Crime and Disorder Act 1998 requires Councils and police forces to carry out the audit.

Between 50 and 80 organisations in the district have been asked to fill in the questionnaire, which asks about company policies and the cost of crime.

A wide range of public, private and voluntary agencies have been asked to take part, including the Telegraph & Argus, Bradford Council, Age Concern, the Council for Mosques and Bradford & District Chamber of Commerce.

And it is hoped to get the views of hard-to-reach groups, such as Asian women and the gay and lesbian community.

Community safety co-ordinator Chief Inspector Joan Simpson said many people's views have already been recorded.

"It's the basis for a three-year strategy," she said. "The audit will throw up issues and areas of concern. Then we will be able to put a strategy in place to tackle them."

Chief Insp Simpson said audits were being carried out throughout the country, but each one would be unique to that area.

Sharmila Gandhi, Bradford Council's community safety policy officer, said: "The audit will be unique to the Bradford district's needs. It will also differ depending on the area of the district.

"We want to hear people's views about crime and disorder and want people to contribute."

It is hoped all the information will be collected and be put out for consultation by the end of the year. The final draft should then be ready for April next year. The audit is then to be carried out every three years.

Crooks handed the keys!

Thieves are having an easy run taking cars - because some motorists are leaving keys in the ignition.

Police are urging people to take more car when leaving their cars after a rise in thefts over recent weeks in the Eccleshill division - particularly in the Baildon and Shipley areas.

Community safety officer Sergeant Paul Jeffrey said: "We have had several reports of car windows being smashed and handbags, shopping, leather jackets and cash being taken.

"All these items have been left on view in the cars and thieves see this as an ideal opportunity.

"In some cases, the cars have been left unlocked making it easier for the thief. And we have even had reports of cars being stolen as the keys were left in the ignition."

Sgt Jeffrey appealed for motorists to take more care by following a few simple rules.

"By locking things in the boot you can significantly reduce the chance of becoming a victim of this sort of crime," he said.

"And never leave the keys in the ignition, even if only popping in to the newsagents for a paper."

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