THE NFU has launched a new service for farmers and the public to give information anonymously about rural crime, in partnership with the charity Crimestoppers.

The Rural Crime Reporting Line is part of the union’s ongoing work to tackle the serious issues surrounding criminal behaviour on farms and in the wider countryside.

By ringing 0800 783 0137 or visiting www.ruralcrimereportingline.uk, farmers, rural businesses and the public can anonymously give information about crime relating to large-scale, industrial fly-tipping, hare coursing, machinery theft, or livestock theft.

NFU Cymru rural affairs chairman Hedd Pugh, said: “Rural crime can be devastating for farmers and their businesses, not only financially but can also cause a great amount of stress.

“Unfortunately is it is something that many of us experience all too often and with suspected links to organised crime, these crimes often go under-reported and its true extent remains unknown.

“We have teamed up with charity Crimestoppers to provide a service for farmers and the public to give information anonymously about these crimes. Any information passed to the police could help provide key leads in the pursuit of these criminals.

“NFU Cymru has also been working closely with Dyfed-Powys Police and has been instrumental in the setting up of a dedicated rural crime unit within the task force.

Crimestoppers’ director of business development Rodger Holden said: “The NFU should be applauded for launching the Rural Crime Reporting Line in partnership with the charity Crimestoppers, on behalf of all farmers and their communities.

“This is a joined up initiative, supported by law enforcement, that strives to reduce and detect crimes that directly threaten people’s livelihoods, their peace of mind, and are a real cost to us all.

“We all have a responsibility to support the countryside by working together to combat criminal activity.”

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