POLICE are encouraging farmers to be vigilant amid cases of fuel thefts from farms.

On farms, fuel and batteries are one of the most likely things to be targeted by criminals, Devon and Cornwall Police say.

Unprotected tanks can be emptied in minutes using basic methods causing both financial and emotional impacts on farmers and businesses.

‘Working together, land owners, rural businesses and members of the public should be vigilant reporting any suspicious activity to the police - noting vehicle details, descriptions and an accurate location’ a spokesperson for the force said.

Landowners and managers, where possible, should secure gates and block unused entrances.

Protect fuel and batteries with locks, lighting, CCTV and fencing.

Turn the power off to the tank at when not in use.

Keep a record of how much fuel your using in each machine – keep a list of fuel used.

Store machinery, tanks and batteries out of sight where possible.

Consider the use of signage or other means to prevent cold callers to farms and businesses.

‘If you have any information regarding rural crime such as Farm Machinery, Livestock theft, etc, report online at Home | Devon & Cornwall Police, call 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111’ the spokesperson added.