A SHARP rise in thefts of quad bikes is putting extra pressure on sheep farmers in the South West at the busiest time of year.

Latest theft claims figures from rural insurer NFU Mutual show a 26% annual increase in the UK cost of quad theft bringing the total value to £2.8m in 2022.

The South West region saw a notable rise in quad bike thefts last year, and the continued increase in thefts this year has prompted a warning to farmers to ramp up their security.

Quad thefts at busy lambing time can create additional challenges for many smaller family farms, on top of caring for their sheep when they are at their most vulnerable.

With thieves targeting the many sheep farms where quads are a vital tool, NFU Mutual is advising farmers in the South West to take extra security measures to avoid becoming victims.

PC Julian Fry, Rural Affairs Officer for Devon and Cornwall Police, said: ‘There is a wider message here about farmers and members of the public being vigilant in the countryside and reporting any suspicious activity to police.’

PC Fry continued: ‘Quads are not the only item on farms that are targeted by thieves with trailers also being particularly targeted due to similar supply chain issues. 

‘Much of the crime prevention advice applies to other types of equipment as well so this is a timely reminder for farmers and others in our rural communities to take stock and review their current security measures.’