New data from NFU Mutual's 2022 Rural Crime Report has revealed that the cost of rural crime in Bucks has dropped nearly 40 per cent in the space of a year.
Last year it costs Bucks £520,000, a drop of 37 per cent from 2020.
Despite this seemingly good news, insurer NFU Mutual Aylesbury and Chiltern have warned rural communities that rural thefts in the county is rising, as farmers are urged to boost security as fuel and machinery prices soar, with quad bikes and land rovers a main target.
The insurer have issued urgent advice and a series of videos to help farmers take action to protect their property.
Mark Wheeler, Senior Agent at NFU Mutual Aylesbury and Chiltern, said: “Our latest claims figures warn that rural theft is quickly gathering momentum as criminals make up for time lost over the past two pandemic years. We’re advising rural people to review their security, to help prevent crime and disruption.
“With prices of essential farm equipment such as tractors and quads rising fast and the cost of diesel soaring over the past year, there’s little doubt that criminals will be trying to steal from farms. We also know that essentials of rural living like heating oil tanks will only become more attractive to thieves as costs rise. A recent poll by NFU Mutual reveals that 89% of respondents believe inflation will lead to an increase in rural crime.
“Crime in the countryside causes high levels of anxiety and disruption, with many farmers and rural homeowners feeling vulnerable due to their isolated location. The knowledge that determined thieves are scouring the countryside looking for targets, and returning to carry out night-time raids, leads to sleepless nights for many in remote areas.
“NFU Mutual is responding by helping those living and working in rural areas to put in place effective security measures and by continuing to provide major support to enable dedicated police resources to tackle crime.”
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