SIXTEEN members of Dinton WI attended the July meeting held in Dinton Village Hall.

The president, Sue Taylor, welcomed everyone to the meeting and introduced the speaker, Mick Leighfield, from the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust, who spoke about home security.

Mick explained to members that the services provided by Bobby Van Trust were specifically aimed at the over 60s and vulnerable people.

The concept of the Bobby Van was first devised in Nottingham, where the university undertook a study into the effects of burglary on elderly people. The Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust was set up as a charity in 1998.

An operator from the trust visits properties on request and makes a security assessment, and if needed suitable locks can be fitted to doors and windows free of charge.

The trust is funded by donations but Wiltshire Police covers some aspects, including transport costs.

Mick advised members on the correct use of door-chains and also about which types of locks should be fitted to back and front doors.

Sue reminded members of the group’s success with their entry in the Three Valleys Craft competition at South Newton in May, when they took second place.

The competition was to provide details of a useful security tip. First place was awarded to Sue Taylor, second to Julie Macey, and third to Jackie Taylor.

The next meeting will take place on September 11 when the speaker will be The Knicker Lady, Jenny Peet.