Bucks sees rural crime costs rise

The report, which analyses the rural insurance firm’s annual claims data to assess the state of crime in rural communities, has shown that in the county, rural crime cost the UK £630,000 in 2015.

Nationally the cost of rural crime has reached £42.5 million, an increase of 0.4 per cent, with the worst affected regions remaining the north east (£7.9 million) and the east (£6.9 million).

The most common items stolen in the Buckinghamshire area are quad bikes, machinery, such as bailing machines, and power tools.

A statement from Thames Valley Police said the force had seen an increase of 21 per cent in the reporting of rural crime but this showed the public had increased confidence its local neighbourhood police teams.

The force said: “The report highlights the importance of policing in rural communities, which presents its own unique challenges, and we will continue to work hard with communities and partners to reduce crime and the fear of crime in Thames Valley.

“So far this year, we have a seen a 18 per cent reduction in the number of recorded rural crimes when compared to the same period last year, demonstrating the progress our rural crime teams and rural crime special constables have made with their numerous targeted operations.

“Rural crime remains a priority for the police and the police and crime commissioner and we understand the impact rural crime has on our communities and the livelihood of those affected.”

Around the country the number of tractor thefts has fallen slightly (nine per cent) although the cost has risen by 0.6 per cent, but the number of livestock thefts have increased by seven per cent.