Harrow bookies sign up to Betwatch scheme

Troublemakers who are banned from one bookmakers will be banned from all and the Council has created a secure online forum where security managers can log in to share updates.

Six Harrow bookmakers have joined forces with Harrow Council and the police in a new initiative to cut crime and anti-social behaviour.

Under the Betwatch scheme, premises will share information and advice with each other and the police to improve security in the borough's betting shops. The scheme is similar to pubwatch schemes in operation across London that are proven to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour connected to licensed premises.

Harrow branches of Ladbrokes, William Hill, Paddy Power, Bet 90, Betfred and Roar Betting have already signed up to Harrow Betwatch, which was launched in Harrow Town Centre on Wednesday 18th January.

Cllr Phillip O'Dell, portfolio holder for environment and community safety on Harrow Council, said:

"Harrow is one of London's safest boroughs and the Council will continue taking every opportunity to work with the police and the community to keep it that way."

"This new scheme will see the Council, police and bookmakers working together to keep our communities safe. It will improve communications with local betting shops and enable us to deal with residents' concerns faster and more effectively."Harrow Licensing Sergeant, John Crump said:
"BetWatch means that all Security Managers from all of Harrow's licensed bookmakers will exchange information with the police and each other. It is run by the bookmakers for the bookmakers, with the aim of reducing crime and making their premises a safer environment for all. If you are banned from one bookmakers in Harrow you will be banned form all local bookmakers.
"Greater information sharing and cooperation with the police is a good thing for local residents. We are looking to extend these arrangements across all licensed premises in the borough in the future."
Richard Royal, Public Affairs Manager at Ladbrokes, which has its headquarters in Rayners Lane, said:
"The safety and security of our customers and staff is exceptionally important to us and we already have some of the best security procedures in the industry - including a 24/7 Security Team, first class CCTV and maglocks - which reflect our commitment to combating crime and disorder.
"We are always happy to work alongside local authorities, the police and community stakeholders to support initiatives that can further this cause - making our shops, high streets and communities safer for all."

Pictured: Ken Duncan, Gambling Commission, Chief Supt Dal Babu, Borough Commander and Finlay Flett, Head of Community Safety Harrow Council.

Source: Harrow Council 

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