Rugby Rangers have been helping target pick pocket crime in the town centre with a simple scheme aimed at keeping wallets and purses secure. Cat’s bells and chains have been handed out during the Christmas period to people shopping in the town centre. The scheme has proved very successful and it will continue into the New Year.

“The Cats bells are a great little item that can easily be added to your purse or wallet and be a great deterrent to anyone thinking of stealing it, “ said Aftab Gaffar, Operations Director at the Rugby BID Company. “We also have chains that can be attached to your wallet or purse and then attached to your bag or to yourself. It’s a simple idea but it is very effective.”

Imelda Marsden, a shopper in Rugby, received a Cats’ Bell and she commented, “I think it is a very good idea, I have had my purse stolen and the feeling of having something personal taken away is emotional. I became suspicious of people coming close to me, but this cat bell, knowing that there is something there, gives me a bit of security. You just feel more secure and I urge others to approach the very helpful Rangers for them.

Hundreds of the cat’s bells and chains were given out, particularly those seen as vulnerable or easy targets, during the Christmas period by the Rangers. With several pickpocket incidents occurring during December Rugby BID are still keen for people to be aware that they should keep their personal possessions protected. “Anyone who would like a Cat’s bell or chain can approach any of the Rugby Rangers who will be happy to help,” said Gaffar.