TRACTOR and quad thefts in Scotland have fallen by over a third in the last two years, it was reported this week.

Rural insurer NFU Mutual, Police Scotland and other partners have been working together to tackle farm machinery theft across Scotland, and now the latest claims statistics from NFU Mutual show that the cost of tractor and quad theft in Scotland has fallen by 40% between 2014 and 2016.

The Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime initiative was launched in June 2015 with £75,000 sponsorship from NFU Mutual. That funding has enabled Police Scotland to train officers in the investigation and prevention of a range of rural crimes, and provided support for vehicle and livestock theft operations.

Chair of SPARC, chief superintendent Gavin Robertson, said: “These results show the positive impact of the work that has been carried out by SPARC and the 13 local partnership groups aligned to each of Police Scotland’s local policing divisions. This structure ensures a consistent approach while allowing issues to be identified and addressed by those who understand best the specific needs and concerns of their own rural communities.

“We are far from complacent, however, and have set ambitious work plans for the coming year with a view to making further reductions in rural crime across Scotland," he insisted. "For this to be achievable, I would urge farmers, foresters, rural businesses and residents as well as those visiting the countryside for leisure activities to take appropriate steps to protect their own vehicles and property by following the advice at: http://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/home-and-personal-property/rural-crime."

NFU Mutual regional manager for Scotland Martin Malone said: “These figures are encouraging and send a clear message to would-be thieves that the countryside is not an easy target.

"As the insurer of most farms in Scotland we know that rural crime is a major concern for farmers and country dwellers and are determined to drive it down by working closely with police, farmers and other organisations.”