Braintree: Distinction for BARC in renewal of Safer Business Award

BARC (Braintree Against Retail & Business Crime) has receive a Certificate of Distinction with the renewal of its Safer Business Award.

The national accreditation scheme recognises that BARC carries out its work effectively, while the “Distinction” meaning that it does an outstandingly good job.

Shown in the picture are Inspector Mick Couldridge of Essex Police and BARC Co-ordinator Michelle Coote. Inspector Mick Couldridge of Essex Police, who only recently joined the Braintree Police team, said: “It is enormously pleasing to find an active business crime group in Braintree and I am most encouraged to find that they have been recognised for the sterling work that they carry out.”

Michelle Coote, head of Security for the George Yard Shopping Centre, combines her role with acting as BARC Co-ordinator.

“Michelle Coote and her team of security officers combine their essential role in George Yard Shopping Centre with supporting other town centre businesses, which is of benefit to everybody,” said George Yard centre manager Brenda Baker.

“In the last year they have contributed to the arrest of national and local criminals involved in fraud and theft, none of which would have happened without their vigilance”.

Michelle Coote added: “This award would not have been possible without the input, hard work, vigilance,

information sharing, and co-operation of all our members. BARC would like to say a big thank you to you all.”