Rural Crime News

As peak summer holiday season arrives in the UK the National Sheep Association (NSA) is warning holidaymakers of the risk posed by their pets to sheep they may encounter during their countryside breaks.

Despite being banned in 2004 as part of the Hunting Act, hare coursing remains a costly and distressing problem for farmers across the UK

The theft of equipment from construction sites and farms has a significant impact on the businesses targeted from both the loss and replacement of the equipment taken, in addition to the cost of temporarily reduced activity and downtime within these sectors.

Rural insurer NFU Mutual has revealed the estimated cost of dog attacks on farm animals in the first quarter of 2021 rose by a staggering 50 per cent. As more people continue to use the countryside, awareness of the dangers dogs pose remains low.

A total of 18 lambs died after they were discovered dead or seriously injured, in a dog attack that is believed to be deliberate.

Dog thefts have been a rising problem in the UK for some time, but a lockdown pet boom has exacerbated the problem to incredible levels. It’s estimated that dog thefts have risen by 170% since the start of the pandemic.

Teenager Harvey Waters is “ecstatic” as well-wishers donate thousands of pounds to help him, after he lost his savings to an eBay tractor scam.

Gladis, a pregnant Highland cow and her unborn calf have sadly died in Dorset after a dog attack.

Every farm uses gates, but more and more have begun to opt for a more advanced electric option. Some have made the jump for better deterrence against intruders or stronger biosecurity. Others have found the ease of use and extra convenience worthwhile.

With rural crime on the rise, making sure your farm security is up to scratch has never been more important. 24 Networks and Security, which works with farmers nationwide to protect their property, offers some advice.

Farmers are welcoming government proposals for the police to have more power responding to serious incidents of livestock worrying.

Rural groups have welcomed moves to tackle certain rural crimes, as well as red tape around planning permission, but reiterated calls to ensure food imports match domestic standards.