Crime Concerns Taint Once Safest UK Village
Boscastle, a charming coastal village in North Cornwall, once celebrated as the safest in the UK, now faces a disconcerting rise in crime, according to its residents. The village is adorned with a medieval harbor, maintained by the National Trust, and nestled within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Previously, Boscastle proudly belonged to the PL35 postcode, boasting the lowest crime rate per capita anywhere in the country, a study by Quickmove Properties indicated. The analysis revealed that in 2022, the PL35 postcode reported only six crimes per 1,000 residents. The neighboring TR12 postcode, encompassing the Lizard peninsula, recorded over three times the crime rate of the Boscastle area.
This idyllic village, frequented by tourists attracted to the scenic North Cornwall coast, now grapples with a surge in alleged youth-related crimes. Disturbing incidents of anti-social behavior and vandalism are causing unease among locals. Stories of rocks hurled at car windows, intimidation of the elderly, and even the smearing of the new playground with lard have circulated.
Residents Speak Out
Adrian Bright, 62, the proprietor of The Cobweb Inn, a family-owned establishment spanning over half a century, disclosed that Boscastle has witnessed an upswing in youth-related misconduct. While not all incidents have been reported, there are reports of walls being pulled down, wing mirrors being vandalized, and vehicles targeted in parking lots. A group of teenagers, new to the village, seems to be at the heart of these problems, unsettling the typically tranquil community.
Tracy Bright, 58, Adrian’s wife, and their daughters Katy, 17, and Lily, 18, operate the pub alongside him. Tracy revealed that these issues have emerged over the last six months, causing distress to older residents and those affected by the offenses. The situation is especially disheartening given that the locals who grew up in Boscastle generally hold deep respect for their community.
Impact on the Village
The local park, recently refurbished at great expense by the parish council, also fell victim to the spree of vandalism. The play area equipment was smeared with lard, prompting an investigation and police involvement. The incident triggered the council to urge residents to report any such incidents, no matter how trivial, to law enforcement.
Hazel Beetles, 66, residing at the village’s top, expressed disappointment about the incidents tarnishing Boscastle’s reputation. Despite these recent incidents, she noted that problems from individuals—be it adults, children, or visitors—are uncommon in the village.
Residents’ Concerns
Alan Partridge, 84, and his wife Juanita, inhabitants of Boscastle for a quarter of a century, affirmed their move from Yorkshire to enjoy a slower pace of life. He acknowledged the village’s designation as the UK’s safest place to live but underscored the concerns of older generations, considering the remote location from major medical facilities. While he found the distinction plausible, he emphasized the enormity of the UK and the vast diversity of its regions.
Law Enforcement’s Response
Neighborhood Beat Manager Lee Skinner reassured residents that despite an isolated incident of vandalism involving lard, the authorities are dedicated to upholding Boscastle’s safety reputation. He highlighted collaboration with local partners and the strong sense of community ownership over the area’s well-being.
Cornwall Council was contacted for comment by The Sun Online.
In summary, Boscastle, once celebrated as the UK’s safest village, faces a rising tide of youth-related crime that has left its community shaken. Previously known for its tranquil beauty, Boscastle now grapples with unsettling incidents of vandalism and anti-social behavior, prompting concerns among its residents and casting a shadow over its once-spotless reputation.