POLICE ADVICE

JEWELLERY owners are being urged to be cautious when selling unwanted gold as the cost of precious metal continues to rise.

Increasing prices mean there are now more opportunities to sell gold, including via the post and on the internet. While the majority of traders are legitimate, police and Trading Standards officers are urging jewellery owners to be vigilant when selling their gold.
Advice from Lancashire Police is, if you are tempted to maximise on the current price of gold, the best advice is to shop around to make sure that you are obtaining the best price. Current increases in the value of gold have lead to an increase in the number of thefts of gold jewellery – owners are also advised to take several simple steps to avoid becoming victims of crime.”
• Keep a photographic record of items of sentimental or financial value. This is also important for antiques, paintings and property of high value
• Items should be placed next to a ruler and on a non reflective surface and background. These photos will help when reporting an incident and should be kept in a safe place
• Keep receipts or valuations of jewellery and a comprehensive record of your precious items
• Be aware that usual property marking techniques such as ultra-violet marking or etching an item may detract from the value of the property.
Finally, do not engage with doorstep traders who are offering to purchase gold, antiques or other jewellery.

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY, CONTACT THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY

08451 253545
IN EMERGENCY 999

CRIME STOPPERS 0800 555 111

10 November 2009