FarmWatch will be initially launched in Halton, Gressing-ham, Over Kellet, Nether Kellet, Borwick, Priest Hutton, Capernwray, Arkholme and Whittington by PC Joanne Humphrey and Police Comm-unity Support Officer (PCSO) Annette Hoover who cover the Lune Valley as part of the local neighbourhood policing team.

The scheme aims to improve the links between the police and the farming community and would welcome farms and stables on board to help combat rural crime.

PC Humphrey said: "The farming population forms a significant and valuable part of the district and is occasionally targeted by acquisitive thieves – stealing anything from scrap metal to fuel and in some cases livestock.

"This scheme is designed to encourage people who are involved in countryside activities to be vigilant, share knowledge and reduce opportunities for crime and damage by repor-ting anything suspicious."

* If you farm in one of these areas and wish to become part of this network please contact PC Humphrey on 01524 63333.