Island is changing, say garden firm owners following burglaries
TWO business owners who have both fallen victim to burglaries believe the island is changing.
Police are appealing for information after three commercial businesses in the Route de la Ramee area of St Peter Port suffered break-ins on 2 and 3 May.
Guernsey Gardens, Ramee Grow and Nick Russell Turf all suffered forced entry or items were stolen.
The offices at Guernsey Gardens were broken into, locked draws were forcibly opened and £180 in cash was taken.
Managing director at Guernsey Gardens Jerry Gallienne said although he felt fortunate more was not taken, he was bewildered by the incident.
‘Police tried to find fingerprints but there was nothing to find,’ he said.
‘We were quite lucky in a way, we have lots of computers and things in the cabin and nothing else was broken or stolen.
‘We are a big site here and we don’t have any neighbours, so maybe it’s an easy place to target.
‘It’s amazing really, though, isn’t it? Things really are changing on the island.
‘It’s a shame because you think it wouldn’t happen to you, but everyone now has to be on the ball with their security, locking doors, and probably cameras are the way forward.
‘We are currently speaking to our electrician about installing security cameras.’
Commercial business Nick Russell Turf suffered a similar burglary when the property’s shed locks were forced open and items were stolen from the van of owner Nick Russell.
‘They took my debit cards and they also took my air rifle,’ said Mr Russell.
‘It’s not normal, but I suppose it’s just changing times.
‘Maybe people who aren’t from here are taking advantage of our island ways.
‘It just seems unusual, as we are very tucked away here.
‘I am going to get more security cameras which are better at recording in the night.
‘But even cameras have their problems, as chances are you usually just get a picture of a hoody, you’d be very lucky to get a car registration.’
Ramee Grow was not available for comment.
n Anyone who can provide information is asked to contact PC 82 Le Page on 725111 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
