With rural crime among the top concerns for farmers, members are being given the opportunity to beef up their farm security with wildlife cameras and video equipment.
NFU county adviser for Nottinghamshire, Andy Guy, said: "Rural crime is the scourge of the countryside and can have a devastating impact on farmers, their families and their businesses.
Read more: Rural crime needs to be a top police priority all year round
“Farmers are often on the front line of rural crime so it is vital they are provided a helping hand to prevent themselves from becoming regular victims.
“So, here in Notts, the NFU is offering members the chance to get some free security camera equipment to help not only deter these ruthless criminals but also to catch them in the act.”
There are 20 camouflaged wildlife cameras available, which Andy advises should be used in pairs and were funded by the NFU, and video equipment courtesy of £9,000 in funding from Nottinghamshire police and crime commissioner Paddy Tipping.
NFU Nottinghamshire county adviser Andy Guy (left) and Chf Insp Andy Rooke of Nottinghamshire Police with security equipment farmers can use to protect their property
The cameras can be placed strategically around the farm or in farm buildings to catch fly-tippers and thieves in the act. The footage can then help the police with their investigations.
Andy was joined at the cameras' launch event at a farm in north Nottinghamshire by Ch Insp Andy Rooke of Nottinghamshire Police.
Read more: Farmers and growers encouraged to support Home Office rural crime survey
Speaking about his force's approach to rural crime, Ch Insp Rooke said: “In addition to our dedicated patrol and operations looking at issues such as off-road biking, hare coursing, poaching and illegal fishing, we also had dedicated officers working alongside Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in a joint initiative to visit farms in Nottinghamshire.
“Our officers spent time providing crime prevention advice around protecting farm boundaries, and the security of farm machinery and buildings, alongside our colleagues in the Fire Service who were providing arson and fire safety advice."
If you're an NFU member and want any of the security equipment on offer, either call Andy Guy on 07887 416613 or email QW5keS5HdXlAbmZ1Lm9yZy51aw==