A rural watchdog is warning that the combination of dark nights and the credit crunch could lead to an increase in countryside crime.
Tim Barnes-Clay, Midlands spokesman for the Market Harborough based Country Land and Business Association (CLA), said: "Each year we seem to experience an increase in crime in the countryside almost as soon as the clocks go back. Incidents range from fly-tipping on private land to thefts of farm property, machinery and vehicles.
"This year, we have the added fallout from the credit crunch, and we believe this is a precarious combination that could see a bigger increase than usual."
Robin Clarke, a farmer from Seaton near Oakham, said: "I have had metal field gates stolen for their scrap value and I am reporting far more fly-tipping than previously. I predict that more opportunists will carry out their indiscriminate dumping of waste under cover of darkness."
Mr Barnes-Clay added: "Our advice is to be prepared and be aware. Let’s not wait for crime to happen. Taking simple steps such as installing security lights, not leaving tools lying around or keys in vehicles can make your rural property less of a target."
