Rural Crime

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.

The TV chef used trackers and CCTV to trace criminals who raided his country estate in Essex.

Teenager Harvey Waters lost more than £8,000 to a rogue eBay tractor seller, having worked hard to save up for the tractor he had wanted since he was a child.

Thieves are targeting expensive tractor GPS kit as Covid-19 restrictions ease; prompting rural insurer NFU Mutual to issue a security alert.