Here in Jersey, however, the local volunteer force has been confronted with an altogether different problem – stolen road signs.
Three road signs in St Brelade – marking Mont du Ouaisné, Chemin du Portelet and Petite Route des Mielles – have gone missing, with the disappearances following reports of drunken gatherings in the Portelet Common area.
St Brelade Centenier Michel Bougeard said that there was no investigation currently taking place, but that the parish hoped whoever took the signs would return them.
It has even offered to pick them up, if necessary.
‘At this stage we just want them back,’ he said. ‘Part of the problem is we don’t know how well fixed they were in the first place. If they were screwed in tight then you could say that someone had intentionally gone to remove them, but if someone’s just yanked it and it came off in their hand then it’s more likely to be someone who was drunk.
‘If I was convinced it was somebody who had gone out to steal them, then perhaps there would be a case that needs further investigation. However, we’ve had issues with people drinking at Portelet Common and, as the signs were in that area, it wouldn’t be surprising if it stemmed from that.’
St Brelade Constable Mike Jackson said that if the signs were not returned soon then the parish would have to replace them at a cost.
‘From the parish’s point of view they have to be replaced,’ said Mr Jackson. ‘That could be a few hundred pounds so it is a cost we could do without – especially during these difficult times. At the moment we’re just trying to get the message out that if they are seen, we’d very much like them back. They’re not easy to hide so if they do pop up somewhere we’ll even come and collect them.’
