Farmers have been warned to check their security procedures as farm thefts could increase over winter.

Dorset Police Rural Crime Team has issued the warning with the clocks set to go back on Sunday, October 29.

The darker nights often lead to an increase in thefts of farming equipment as rising prices and spare part shortages make them attractive to thieves.

A Dorset Police Rural Crime Team spokesperson said: “As the clocks go back this weekend and the dark winter evenings draw in, farming communities are advised to review their security measures to help protect valuable equipment across the countryside.”

Dorset Echo: Dorset Police Rural Crime Team are now using volunteers on horseback to help prevent crime Dorset Police Rural Crime Team are now using volunteers on horseback to help prevent crime (Image: Newsquest)

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Leading UK rural insurer NFU Mutual are also concerned about the potential rise in thefts and say that rural crime has costed more over the autumn and winter from the past two years.

They also estimate that the cost of rural crime has shot up by 22.1 per cent to £49.5 million in 2022 as thieves target high value GPS systems and farmers’ vehicles.

Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist, said: “Farmers are being hit by a wave of thefts carried out by determined gangs who will stop at nothing to get what they want. 

“Smaller, high value equipment such as GPS and quad bikes are being stolen in high numbers and we are also concerned by a recent surge in tractor and telehandler thefts.

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“We’re very concerned that the pattern of higher winter thefts will be repeated this year when the clocks go back, and dark nights provide cover for criminals to steal from farms unseen.

“That’s why we are urging farmers to take all possible steps to keep expensive equipment locked away and make sure their farmyard security is as tight as possible.

“Farm thefts cause disruption and widespread concern to people who work and live in the countryside which is why we are proud to provide support and funding for the National Rural Crime Unit, which is strengthening work across the UK ensuring dedicated police resources are targeted where they are needed most.”

Dorset, however, has seen a drop in the cost of rural crime since 2021, and was also one of just a few forces nationally to see a reduction in the cost of rural crime claims of agricultural vehicles, machinery and livestock thefts

Dorset Police Spokesperson, added: “Rural crime has huge financial implications for farms and agricultural businesses and can leave farming families feeling vulnerable. The findings of the report show that Dorset is making good progress in the fight against rural crime and the Force are very proud of the Rural Crime Team for what they’ve managed to achieve.”

“Often criminals use the cover of darkness to commit crime, so the Dorset Police Rural Crime team are busy engaging with local farmers and rural communities, passing on that advice, continuing to deliver exceptional local policing and making policing increasingly visible and connected in local communities.”

For more information on trends and advice on how to beat rural crime, NFU Mutual’s latest Rural Crime report is available at www.nfumutual.co.uk/ruralcrime. 

To report a crime head to www.dorset.police.uk/ro/report/rwc/rural/report-rural-crime.