Farmers join fight against rural crime

The police in East Kent have started working more closely with farmers to tackle rural crime.

Farmers have been joining police operations to act as the eyes and the ears of the rural community and report suspicious vehicles and people.

It is being run as part of Country Eye, the neighbourhood-watch style support and information network for the rural community.

It follows the national rise in metal theft and incidents where criminals target the rural area to commit crime such as the theft of agricultural vehicles, diesel and machinery.

The operation has already led to a number of stop checks and officers have noticed a reduction in crime.

PC Richard Callaghan from the Dover District Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "We're working together with the rural community to create a safe and secure environment in the countryside.

"The farmers are using their detailed local knowledge to be on the look-out for suspicious vehicles and people and they are reporting that to us so we can deal with it as it's happening."

Bob Akehurst, chair of the Dover District Neighbourhood Watch Association said: "Rural crime has a detrimental impact on the community both in terms of financial loss and the nuisance factor.

"I'm very pleased that we're working closely with the police to tackle the problem and would urge people to get involved."

For further information on Country Eye contact Jacqui Blake, East Division Neighbourhood Watch Liaison Officer on 01303 289083.