The overall cost in the South West in 2024 fell by 4% to an estimated £6.7m, whilst in the South East (including BBO and Hampshire) costs fell by 20% to an estimated £7.1m.
But although overall crime costs fell, there were considerable fluctuations within counties.
Considerable fluctuations
In Berkshire costs more than doubled, from £228,000 to £473,000, and there was a similar situation in Dorset, with a 95% rise from £347,000 to £676,000. Worst hit was Somerset, which saw a 169% increase from £801,000 to £2,152,000.
The biggest falls were 30% in Hampshire, from £1,373,000 to £948,000, and 21% in Wiltshire, down from £984,000 to £774,000.
Quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) remained top targets for thieves, despite costs falling 16% to around £2.7m.
The cost of global positioning system (GPS) units theft went down 71% to £1.2m Livestock theft remained high in 2024 at an estimated cost of £3.4m across the UK.
It has become highly organised and often involves 50 or more sheep being taken in a single raid.
Tackling livestock theft
NFU Mutual is a major funder of the National Rural Crime Unit (NRCU) and has funded the UK’s first livestock theft officer within the unit until at least 2027/28 to tackle this upsetting crime.
UK farm animals worth an estimated £1.8m were severely injured or killed in dog attacks in 2024, down by more than a quarter compared to the previous year.
The National Construction and AgriTheft Team, which sits under the NRCU, seized £4.4m worth of stolen agricultural vehicles and machinery in 2024.
Collaboration having an impact
Roz Hills, NFU Mutual Regional Manager for the South West, said collaboration with industry and law enforcement was having an impact but there was still work to be done.
“Rural crime goes far beyond disrupting farm work and impacting food production,” she said.
“It has a real impact on the mental wellbeing of farmers and their families, causing stress and sleepless nights as the rural community lives in fear that those responsible might return.”
Colin Campbell, NFU Mutual Regional Manager for the South East, said: “Coordinated efforts from insurers, farmers, manufacturers, police, industry and law makers are crucial in delivering a unified response to the rural crime challenge posed by organised criminals and opportunistic thieves.
“We can see from our new report that this can bear real dividends.”