Rural Crime – Suspicious Activity

Rural Crime – Please Report Suspicious Activity

Rural crime continues to have a significant impact on our farming and countryside communities. Offences such as poaching, hare coursing, and the theft of farm equipment or livestock can cause major disruption, financial loss, and emotional distress.

A key challenge is that many incidents go unreported. Members of the public may assume a vehicle in a field belongs to a farmer or contractor, or that someone walking dogs across farmland is simply exercising them. In some cases, however, this behaviour may be linked to illegal hunting or poaching.

Why Reporting Matters

Every report helps us build a clearer picture of what is happening across our rural areas. Even small or seemingly harmless incidents may be crucial for identifying patterns, directing patrols, or supporting future policing operations.

Your reports directly help the rural crime team tackle:

• Hare coursing and deer poaching
• Theft of machinery, tools, diesel, and livestock
• Damage to crops, fences, and gates
• Suspicious vehicles or unknown individuals on farmland

What to Look Out For

Please report anything that seems unusual, such as:

• Vehicles driving slowly, parked in remote areas, or positioned overlooking fields
• People watching livestock, farm buildings, or fields without a clear reason
• Dogs being used to chase wildlife
• Unfamiliar individuals entering fields or woodland without permission

If in doubt — report it anyway. We would rather check and find nothing than miss essential information.

How to Report

• 999 – If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger
• 101 – For non‑emergency reports or ongoing suspicious activity
• Online – www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/report

You can also contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team via the Avon & Somerset Police website for non‑urgent concerns or advice on rural crime.

Actions

• 19 August 2026
  

  Police Community Support Officers continue to carry out high-visibility patrols across our rural communities to help deter crime and provide reassurance. We encourage residents to report any incidents or suspicious behaviour, as the information you provide helps us direct patrols and focus our efforts on areas of concern.

  On 12 August, PCSO Louise attended Standerwick Market near Frome, speaking with members of the public and the local farming community. These visits provide an opportunity to discuss local issues, share crime prevention advice, and offer support where needed.

  The Frome Neighbourhood Policing Team aims to attend the market on Wednesdays whenever operational commitments allow. If you see us there, please come and say hello. We are always happy to chat and discuss any concerns you may have.