Monthly Archives: May 2017

Watch out for Ransomware Scammers!


Action Fraud has received the first reports of Tech-Support scammers claiming to be from Microsoft who are taking advantage of the global WannaCry ransomware attack.

One victim fell for the scam after calling a ‘help’ number advertised on a pop up window. The window which wouldn’t close said the victim had been affected by WannaCry Ransomware.

The victim granted the fraudsters remote access to their PC after being convinced there wasn’t sufficient anti-virus protection. The fraudsters then installed Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool, which is actually free and took £320 as payment.
It is important to remember that Microsoft’s error and warning messages on your PC will never include a phone number.

Additionally Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. Any communication they have with you must be initiated by you.

How to protect yourself

  • Don’t call numbers from pop-up messages.
  • Never allow remote access to your computer.
  • Always be wary of unsolicited calls. If you’re unsure of a caller’s identity, hang up.
  • Never divulge passwords or pin numbers.
  • Microsoft or someone on their behalf will never call you.

If you believe you have already been a victim

  • Get your computer checked for any additional programmes or software that may have been installed.
  • Contact your bank to stop any further payments being taken.

Report fraud and cyber crime to Actionfraud.police.uk and visit our Crime Safety pages.

UBUS is 3 Years Old

The UBUS community transport service has been running for 3 years now.  Previously known as Community Links, UBUS came into effect in June 2014 and since then an amazing 30,000 journeys have been made across the district by over 800 registered users.

UBUS is a ring and ride community transport service operating within Stratford District.

UBUS is available to anyone in the district who struggles to access public transport due to mobility issues, health problems or who lives in an area with no, or infrequent, public transport.

Passengers can travel between 9:30am and 2:30pm.

UBUS will collect passengers from their door, drop them off at their destination, pick up again at the agreed point and drop off back at home.  Drivers can assist passengers to get on & off the bus and will help with up to 3 shopping bags or a trolley if necessary.

All UBUS vehicles can accommodate a wheelchair.

Depending on where residents live in the district a single journey costs £2.10, £2.70 or £3.40. Return journeys £4.20, £5.40 or £6.80.

Residents living in an Orbit property are eligible for a £0.60 discount on their journey.

Journeys need to be booked in advance. Passengers can book up to seven days in advance.

UBUS provides transport in different parts of the district on specific days.

  • West of Stratford – Operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays
  • East of Stratford – Operates on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays
  • South of Stratford – Operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
  • Stratford Town – Operates on Mondays to Fridays
  • Southam & Surrounding area – Operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays

UBUS can be used to visit friends, attend social groups, leisure activities or go shopping.  It cannot be used to attend medical appointments.

Residents interested in registering with the service should ring 01789 264491.

For further information contact Marie Darwen at Stratford District Council on 01789 260 108.

UBUS is supported by Stratford District Council, Warwickshire County Council and Stratford Town Trust.

Dassett Farmers’ Market

The Dassett Farmers’ Market will be held on Saturday 13th May, 12-4 pm at The Dassett Primary School, Fenny Compton, CV47 2XU.

Attractions include:

  • 4×4 vehicle display
  • Pony rides
  • Cookery demonstrations
  • Fire Engine
  • Falconry
  • Rare Breed sheep and pigs
  • BBQ and Bar
  • Cafe with cakes and live music
  • Local food and drink suppliers
  • Craft stalls
  • Healthy tuck shop
  • WI
  • Food for life
  • Photography and produce competitions
  • Raffle
  • Open Gardens and allotments

All profits go to the school. Entry and Parking free !