The police are urging owners of quad bikes and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) to be vigilant following a spate of rural thefts.

The appeal comes as thefts of these vehicles have surged since July, particularly in October when six incidents were reported.

In the most recent incident in October, a stolen vehicle was successfully recovered and returned to its owner.

The police's specialist Country Watch team is currently investigating these incidents, collaborating with other police teams to build a broader understanding of the situation.

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The team is identifying patterns, suspects and targeted areas, as well as gathering evidence.

Police have shared a list of tips for owners to help safeguard their vehicles.

These include keeping detailed records and photographs of the vehicles, security marking them with a postcode and registering them online.

Owners are also advised to park their vehicles in locked outbuildings, secure them with clamps and locks, and consider using ground anchor plates and chains.

Police recommend investing in a quad security device, fitting a GPS tracking device, and removing the keys when the vehicles are not in use.

The public are reminded to report any suspicious activity to the police.