Warning to beach hut owners following reported break-ins at Greatstone

Officers are urging beach hut owners to protect themselves against burglary following a reported break-in at beach huts in Greatstone.

At around 8pm on Sunday 26 November 2023, police were alerted to a report that padlocks had been cut from beach huts next to the car park on Coast Drive.

Investigating officers are appealing to anyone who may be able to offer information about the incident to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting reference 46/210306/23. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or you can use the online form.

Advice for beach hut owners

Detective Inspector James Wyles, of Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit, said:

‘While investigating the recent reports, we’d like to remind beach hut owners to review their security and take simple steps to protect against burglars and vandals now that the summer season is over.’

Top tips to keep beach huts secure:

• Do not leave anything of value in your hut at any time.
• Lock doors and windows with at least one good quality closed-shackle padlock.
• Consider fitting a bar lock and/or a monitored alarm.
• Security-mark property left in your hut and keep a photographic record of any items.
• Do not leave flammable substances or matches in your hut.
• Do not leave materials around the hut which could be used to commit crime, such as tools.