Cops join forces to tackle countryside menaces.

POLICE in East Devon have been running late-night cross border operations in a bid to tackle an increase in burglaries in rural areas.

Officers have joined forces with police from Dorset and Somerset in a bid to tackle thefts of garden machinery and equipment from outbuildings and sheds.

Honiton rural beat manager PC Clive Vickery said: “This is the time of year where machinery and equipment is stored away for the winter period. With the dark nights drawing in, it is worth spending some time to ensure the security of your property.

“To try and combat these recent burglaries we have been running late-night cross border operations with Dorset and Avon and Somerset Constabulary. This involves mobile patrols and stop checks of any suspicious persons or vehicles.”

Security measures people can adopt include ensuring valuable equipment is stored in a secure building with strong locks, using metal bars or grilles on windows and ensure CCTV cameras are facing in the relevant areas. Lock or immobilise vehicles and equipment when not in use and visually mark machinery and tools as well as keep a list of the tools, serial numbers and identifying marks, which can help police if the stolen property is recovered.

Check fences and hedges to identify weak spots that could provide access and install a barrier or gate to drives or entrances to restrict access.