A new initiative created by the National Farmers Union (NFU) aims to tackle the problem of agricultural crime in the UK, something which is affecting a growing number of farmers across the country.
The NFU is set to introduce a 'farmer support network' which aims to relay relevant information to police, hold suspected stolen livestock on their farms and attend situations or locations where livestock may be at risk of theft. Police officers will also receive additional training to help them handle situations involving stolen livestock in transit.
John Taylor, NFU County Chairman for Lancashire, said: "There are also five auction markets operating in Lancashire plus one just over the border in Cumbria who have agreed to support our scheme. They have agreed to hold stolen livestock for a period of up to 48 hours when the police do not feel that they should move to their destination."
The Home Secretary, Theresa May, welcomed the plans, remarking: "What is great about the initiative I’ve heard about today is that local farmers are taking it upon themselves to educate police officers about the agricultural industry in order to help tackle rural crime."