This unfortunately has become a recognised method of theft for a certain group of allegedly Eastern Europeans operating within the Thames Valley. This has occurred more than once in Newbury already, and will get worse as Christmas approaches.

It is so easy for them to wait in line at the bank, watching for anyone withdrawing cash (particularly the elderly). They are getting away with hundreds, probably thousands of pounds. The police seem powerless to stop them, even though the town is saturated with CCTV.

Quoted from BrianB

This unfortunately has become a recognised method of theft for a certain group of allegedly Eastern Europeans operating within the Thames Valley. This has occurred more than once in Newbury already, and will get worse as Christmas approaches.

It is so easy for them to wait in line at the bank, watching for anyone withdrawing cash (particularly the elderly). They are getting away with hundreds, probably thousands of pounds. The police seem powerless to stop them, even though the town is saturated with CCTV.

And of course, the Council have prohibited parking in the Market Place, which might offer better security compared to the Wharf area.