A QUAD bike was stolen from a farm in Romsey in a burglary using forced entry - however the police were able to return it quickly thanks to a tracker. 

They were called just after 4am, on Thursday, August 31, to reports of a burglary at a farm in The Causeway.

Due to a tracker installed on the bike, officers say they were able to swiftly track and locate the stolen bike in Cadnam and return it to the owner the same morning.

Following the burglary, Test Valley Police posted on Facebook to urge property owners to install alarms and mark their equipment.

The post read: “We would like to assure residents and landowners that we take this type of crime extremely seriously.

"We are conducting patrols in rural areas but we would urge anyone to ensure as far as possible to secure and alarm their buildings and property mark their equipment. Consider installing CCTV, tracker devices, automatic security lights and intruder alarm systems.

READ MORE: Large police presence in Winchester city centre as man is arrested carrying a knife

“People can report all incidents to us as soon as they are able on 101 if it's not an emergency, or 999 if the crime is in progress.

“We wanted to also take this opportunity to remind you of some advice around keeping your quad bikes safe:

• Keep good records of your quad bikes or ATVs. Take colour photographs from the side,

front and behind.

• Photos should include serial/chassis numbers, model numbers and distinguishing features

• All quads should be security marked with your postcode, followed by letters of your

property name or number

• Register your quad at https://orlo.uk/9pq90

• Park as close to your premises as possible, ideally in a locked outbuilding with CCTV and

security lighting, preferably out of sight from nearby roads.

• Secure with wheel clamps and/or locking posts, and store in a secure building. Consider

using ground anchor plates and chains for extra security

• Consider investing in a bespoke quad security device (look for those approved by Secured

by Design and Sold Secure)

• Fit a GPS tracking device

• Remove keys when not in use and do not leave them near the quad”