THE police have cracked down on rural crime by visiting a string of farms in the Chard area to boost intelligence and create a stronger community.

PCSO Richard Oaten was joined by some police cadets to speak to farmers and encourage them to sign up to the Avon & Somerset Constabulary’s Farmwatch scheme.

In all, 14 farms and smallholdings signed up to the scheme, which clamps down on rural crime.

The scheme aims to improve intelligence bet-ween communities and the police through text and email alerts, and visits from local PCSOs, as well as the introduction of early warning systems.

It is hoped suspicious people and vehicles will be reported quickly to the police and other members of rural communities.

The force also concentrated its efforts last week across the region to combat countryside crime.

Dozens of officers across the force area took part in Operation Midas overnight on Friday to deter and disrupt rural crime simultaneously with neighbouring forces across the region.

Avon and Somerset police stepped up patrols and stop-checks on vehicles suspected of involvement in rural crime, such as the theft of fuel, plant equipment, tools and livestock.

Avon and Somerset Rural Crime Lead Supt Geoff Wessell said: “This was a brilliant effort by forces across the region to cooperate on crime in our countryside and I’m pleased with the outcome of Operation Midas.

“A collective approach is vital for tackling rural crime, which is why we were also pleased to welcome vehicle crime experts from the NFU on the operation, as well as members of the rural communities on local ridealongs.

“There will be further concerted action like this over the coming months, in addition to the day-to-day work of the Rural Crime Team and local officers.”