This week’s community update covers local crime trends, a serious collision appeal, road safety reminders and a new directory of support services…
International Control Room Week – Celebrating Our “Heroes in Headsets”
This week is International Control Room Week, shining a light on the dedicated staff who answer 999 and 101 calls across North Yorkshire. They are often the first point of contact in an emergency, remaining calm, collecting vital details and offering reassurance and advice in difficult moments. Over the past year, North Yorkshire Police have significantly improved response times — answering 93.96% of 999 calls within 10 seconds, even with a 16% rise in demand, and cutting 101 call waiting times by more than a minute compared to 2024. Residents are reminded that non-urgent issues can also be reported online, via the Q-buster call-back line, or through the new live chat on the North Yorkshire Police website.
New Service Directory for Women & Girls
A new online directory is now available, listing specialist support services for women and girls across York and North Yorkshire. It includes support for those affected by violence, exploitation or crime, and features gender-specific, trauma-informed services. The directory is updated every six months to ensure information remains accurate, providing a reliable one-stop resource for residents seeking help, whether or not incidents have been reported to the police. Access it here.
Emerging Crime Trend – Vehicle Thefts in Knaresborough
Two Ford vehicles were stolen in Knaresborough using keyless entry theft devices in the early hours of 12th and 13th October. Offenders may have captured the key signal to unlock and steal the cars. Residents are advised to store car keys away from external walls, preferably on an upper floor or in a Faraday bag to block signals. Remain vigilant, report suspicious activity and contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team if you have any information about these incidents.
Appeal Following Serious Collision Near Northallerton
Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after a serious collision on Dolly Lane, Yafforth, on 24th October. A red Suzuki motorcycle, a silver Ford Transit van and a silver Landrover Discovery were involved. The motorcycle rider, a man in his sixties, was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries. The drivers of the other vehicles are assisting officers, and the road was closed for several hours for investigation. Please contact Jack.Dodsworth@northyorkshire.police.uk with reference 12250201193 if you have any information.
Operation Dark Night – Road Safety Checks
From 27th Oct to 9th Nov, North Yorkshire Police will carry out roadside eyesight tests, vehicle headlight and brake light checks, and cycle light inspections to improve safety during darker nights. UK drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres; anyone unable to meet this requirement must not drive and should notify the DVLA. Older drivers renewing licences every three years must self-declare vision standards. TC Matt Harvey reminds everyone to check eyesight regularly and ensure glasses or contact lenses are up-to-date to stay safe on the roads.
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