Farming experts 'concerned' about rise in Staffordshire rural crime
Farming experts have said they are "particularly worried" about the sharp rise in agricultural crime across Staffordshire.
Local NFU representatives have reacted to the latest report highlighting the rise in rural crime across the county.
It showed rural crime cost Staffordshire more than £1,361,000 last year, a rise of 48.5 per cent on 2017.
Read more: Thieves target farms as rural crime soars in Staffordshire
Jeremy Lowe, the Staffordshire county advisor for the National Farmer's Union, said the findings were concerning.
Mr Lowe said: "The findings from rural insurer NFU Mutual are of real concern and reinforces what farmers and rural businesses have known for many years – rural crime is on the rise and a dedicated rural police resource is needed to tackle the problem.
"We are particularly worried that the sharp rises appears to be driven by the theft of tractors, quad bikes and other farm vehicles but we are also gravely concerned by criminal gangs who are slaughtering and butchering animals in fields.
"Staffordshire farms should not be seen as a soft target for criminals and with rural crime costing millions the NFU continues to lobby Government and work with the police and crime commissioners to find solutions that allow farmers, who already feel isolated and vulnerable, to be better protected.
Mr Lowe further commented on how the organisation has moved to help local farmers dealing with these issues.
He said: “The NFU has also launched a Rural Crime Reporting Line in partnership with Crimestoppers that allows farmers to anonymously give information about large-scale industrial fly-tipping, hare coursing, machinery theft and livestock theft.
"Farmers can use the service by calling 0800 783 0137 or visiting www.ruralcrimereportingline.uk on-line.”
