A NEW initiative to prevent rural crime has been launched in County Durham.
The Ferryhill Farmwatch scheme aims to foster greater links between police and the farming community.
It is hoped that by improving communication between farmers and officers they can work together in the fight against rural crime.
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The force also hopes it will reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism, strengthen community spirit, improve security at often isolated properties and reduce the fear of crime.
Twelve farms around Ferryhill, Chilton, West Cornforth and Bishop Middleham have now joined the scheme.
Each is connected to a ring-round telephone system so if an incident is reported police can quickly inform members.
Officers record a warning, such as the registration number of a suspicious vehicle or crime committed, and it is automatically sent to members' phones.
If the call is not answered after five attempts a voice message is left.
PCSO Louise Armstrong and PC Ken Barclay, who cover the Bishop Middleham and West Cornforth area, are leading the scheme.
PCSO Armstrong said: "All the farmers we have spoken to have welcomed the initiative and we have yet to visit many more."
She said it has been well received because farmers want to help each other, prevent becoming victims of crime and feel safer knowing people are looking out for them.
The initiative was launched after a high value JCB agricultural vehicle was stolen from a farm near Bishop Middleham in February.
PCSO Armstrong said: "The theft highlighted a need to improve relationships to prevent future incidents.
"It is unlikely an opportunist thief was just passing the farm and decided to steal the JCB, it may have been targeted.
"That makes it more important for police and farmers to all be aware of what is happening so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity and take better precautions."
For information about the scheme or to leave a confidential message call the Ferryhill beat team on 01325-742759.
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