In some rural areas Farm Watch schemes exist. Much like Neighbourhood Watch schemes these are based on reducing opportunities for theft and creating communities who work together to protect their farms from thieves.

The main advantages of Farm Watch schemes are a reduction in crime and the fear of crime, quick reporting of suspicious activity to the police and the countryside community, and a crime-vigilant community which, in partnership with the police, will create a safer environment.

Some Farm Watch schemes are detailed below. If you would like to speak to someone about farm security please speak to your local crime reduction officer by calling Avon and Somerset Police on 101.

South Somerset Farm Watch

South Somerset Farm Watch was established in December 2009. The aims of the scheme are:

• to reduce local opportunities for livestock and deadstock theft;
• to reinforce the community spirit so that everyone can contribute towards the protection of their property by mutual co-operation and communication;
• to introduce early warning systems in farming and countryside areas;
• to improve the intelligence flow between the countryside communities and the police.

Members of the free scheme receive signs to show they are part of Farm Watch and text message alerts about farm-related crime and suspicious activity.

The scheme also includes free property marking by police officers and the opportunity to register five high-value items on The National Plant and Equipment Register. This is a register of equipment that police forces check if they suspect a piece of agricultural equipment is stolen.

To find out more about South Somerset Farm Watch or sign-up to the scheme please contact Wincanton Police Station on 101.