Gareth Davies MP this morning discussed the impact of rural crime and how we can improve prevention with Gabriella from our local National Farmers Union (NFU) branch and the County Councillor for Colsterworth Rural, Cllr Charlotte Vernon, to discuss how rural crime affects local farmers and those who live in our villages.
Due to its rurality, Lincolnshire is sadly a target for those looking to commit crimes such as theft of machinery or against wildlife like hare coursing.
Last year, rural crime cost Lincolnshire £2.54 million, the highest cost incurred by any county in England, and a 5.5% increase compared to 2021.
However, Lincolnshire Police are fighting back, with the new Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT), formed in December 2021 and now up-and-running, leading the charge alongside strengthened national legislation on barbaric crimes such as hare coursing and the new National Rural Crime Unit to encourage cooperation between stakeholders nationwide.
Gareth said:
“It was great to catch-up with our local NFU representing member farmers across our area on such an important issue which affects all who live in-and-around our villages.
I am determined to work with local police and partners such as the NFU to continue the fight against criminals who target our farmers and our beautiful area.”
