Rise in agricultural theft in Herefordshire

It says the 2010 figure reflects a nationwide trend where almost two-thirds of NFU Mutual branches reported an increase in rural crime in their area.

While nationally thieves have targeted expensive tractors, heating oil, scrap metal and livestock, the theft of power tools such as chainsaws, lawnmowers and workshop tools topped the list of items targeted by rural criminals in Herefordshire.

Fuel such as heating oil and farm diesel came in second followed by quad bikes.

The NFU Mutual rural crime survey is based on the 2010 claims experience of its network of branch offices located in rural towns and villages.

Unlike some other crime reports, NFU Mutual’s survey includes claims for crimes against homes, farms, commercial premises and vehicles.

There is little sign of rural crime slowing as the countryside continues to prove difficult to police and attitudes towards security remain relaxed.

When asked about the main reason thieves target the countryside, 41 per cent of branches said the fact it was such a sparse area made it difficult to police, with 32 per cent claiming there was less chance of thieves being seen.

A total of 59 per cent of NFU Mutual branches reported that thefts from farms or outbuildings was the biggest problem in their area, while 12 per cent said garden sheds and garages have proven tempting for thieves.

Commenting on the issue of rural crime Sonia Jones, NFU Mutual agent in Hereford, said: “No matter what the statistics say, theft and crime in rural areas is highly organised and is a very real threat at all times of year.

“Thieves in our area won’t just target tractors, Land Rovers and farm machinery, they can also make money from stealing and selling smaller items such as quad bikes and power tools that can be stolen and sold on in the blink of an eye.”