Country Eye app to tackle problem of heritage crime
A new app has been developed making it easier to crack down on heritage crime in Kent.
Country Eye allows people to report anything suspicious around the county’s historic castles, cathedrals, stately homes and conservation sites.
Users can upload any pictures and information and those details are assessed and passed on to the relevant authority.
It is all part of Heritage Watch, a new crime prevention organisation supported by Kent Police, to help preserve heritage assets for future generations.
The app, developed by Heritage England and Country Eye, was launched at Leeds Castle, near Maidstone.
Mark Harrison, Historic England’s national police and crime adviser, said: “The app is designed to encourage people to be our eyes and ears.
“It allows users to record and share information on crime, suspicious behaviour and damage so we can gather intelligence and have a better chance of identifying offenders and bring them to justice.
“We know people are passionate about the past and hope to engage with them.”
Heritage crime covers a wide variety of activity responsible for damaging historical items.
This can mean a hefty repair bill, or in the worst cases, part of the past being lost forever.
Theft of metal from monuments can cause damage and on roofs allow water to leak in.
Matthew Scott, Kent’s police and crime commissioner, said: “The cost of rural crime to the economy is around £800 million a year and heritage crime makes up a big part.
“There have been particular issues with a large number of historical sites being targeted in the county and we need to make sure we are tackling it.
“It not only has a financial impact but it stops people visiting those sites.”
Sandra Matthews-Marsh, chief executive of Visit Kent, said it made sense for her organisation to be involved.
“It’s about working together with other organisations to keep these sites safe. We should all keep our eyes and ears open to maintain these wonderful places for the future, she said.
The app is free and available for Android and iOS http://heritagewatch.co.uk/
It cannot be used to report crime: call 101 for non-urgent issues or dial 999 if crime is taking place or safety is at risk.