POLICE officers will launch a new scheme to tackle rural crime at Sparsholt College near Winchester today (May 16).

The Countrywatch campaign will be officially launched at the college’s Countryside Day and is aimed at reducing rural crime and helping farms, residents and rural businesses protect their premises and property.

Officers from Winchester district have been visiting rural premises and inviting farmers, gamekeepers and businesspeople to join a police-held database.

Everyone on this database receives email or text messages alerting them to any suspicious people or vehicles in the area, and appealing for sightings of any stolen machinery or plant.

Officers have also been offering crime prevention advice on subjects such as fitting tracking devices to vehicles and securing remote buildings and premises.

Sergeant Zoe Warr, who has been co-ordinating the project, said: “Although Winchester is a safe place to live and work, there has been a national increase in rural-type crimes, in particular the theft of scrap metal and plant, and poaching.

“Victims of these crimes are also often left feeling isolated and vulnerable, but we want to show the rural community that we are committed to working with them to tackle these very serious issues.”

For more information on Countrywatch email winchester.countrywatch@hampshire.pnn.police.uk