Union’s security warning after bike thefts

NFU CYMRU is warning farmers to be extra-vigilant and mindful of on-farm security after the union was made aware of a series of quad bike thefts.

A growing number of farms in Mid Wales have been targeted by thieves in recent weeks, with several successful and unsuccessful attempts to steal quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVS).

NFU Cymru president John Davies said: “Although these most recent thefts occurred in the Mid Wales and South East Wales areas, we’re encouraging farmers across the country to give urgent consideration to their onfarm security.

It seems the coronavirus lockdown restrictions and the cold temperatures are doing little to deter would-be thieves from taking items, such as quad bikes and ATVS which are integral to our daily work, from our farms.

“It goes without saying that prevention is better than the cure and the most prudent advice is to make buildings, fields and vehicles safe and secure – don’t allow yourself and your business to be an easy target.

“I encourage anyone who sees any activity in or around the farm that they deem suspicious, no matter how insignificant, to report this information to the police on 101.

“It’s vital that our police forces are able to piece together a picture of the crimes occurring in our rural areas. Any information you provide could well help contribute to evidence leading to a successful prosecution further down the line.”

NFU Cymru is issuing the following advice to farmers to help them prevent theft of quad bikes and ATVS:

Invest in a bespoke quad security device or a quality padlock and chain, such as those approved by Secured By Design – a police-approved product scheme.

Never leave your keys in the ignition, even if you only briefly leave your ATV unattended.

Keep gates to yards closed as open gates can be an open invitation to thieves.

Install tracker devices on agricultural machinery as this system can help police locate and retrieve those vehicles once they have left the farm.