A CAMPAIGN to combat rural crime has been launched by Lancashire Police.

Officers are carrying out extra patrols, targeting suspected offenders and visiting farms and rural businesses to offer crime prevention advice.

They will also be providing a police presence at auction marts and other key locations, while specialist wildlife officers and representatives from the Environment Agency, United Utilities and other agencies are carrying out enforcement activity, including anti-poaching patrols and warrants.

Multi-agency roadside checks have also taken place to identify travelling criminals and to deter the theft of livestock and plant equipment.

Farmers, landowners and gamekeepers have been encouraged to work collectively with the police to help identify, disrupt and deter criminals targeting the Lancashire countryside through initiatives like Farm Watch and Rural Watch.

Anybody who would like to speak to an officer to discuss concerns about rural crime or report suspicious activity, should contact local police on 0845 1253545