A NEW video and booklet have been released to help prevent rural crime.

North Yorkshire Police launched the booklet as part of its Rural Crime Strategy, following consultation with the public who said that they wanted rural crime to be a key priority for the police.

The booklet gives advice on building security for farmhouses and outbuildings, as well as keeping hedges and gates in good order, protecting vehicles, tools and equipment. It also provides guidance on ensuring that livestock, horses and dogs are marked.

Assistant Chief Constable Paul Kennedy, said: "Unfortunately, because of the rural nature of the county, local communities can sometimes fall prey to criminals taking advantage of this.

"The Rural Crime Prevention Booklet is a great source of information, demonstrating how people living and working in our rural communities can take some simple steps to help prevent themselves becoming the victims of crime. I urge everyone to take a few minutes to read the advice in the booklet and where necessary take action to prevent themselves from becoming the victims of criminals."

The video is below, and the booklet is available at northyorkshire.police.uk/ruralcrime