September is a busy month for tractors and there are plenty to be seen working in the county’s fields. However, this month will also see a more unusual vehicle taking to the roads of Lincolnshire to promote the work being done in partnership to tackle rural crime.
In support of Operaton Fusion, Lincolnshire Police’s forcewide initiative to reduce acquisitive crime, a John Deere 6630 tractor has been liveried in Police stripes complete with a blue light on top and it will be the star attraction at various Farmer’s Markets, auctions and events across the county throughout September. Intended to be a crowd-puller, the tractor will draw the attention of the public who can then learn more about the work being undertaken to combat rural crime.
One such activity has seen Lincolnshire Police working alongside the National Farmers’ Union to promote the use of Smartwater DNA marking.
SmartWater is a colourless liquid solution that is simply dabbed onto the uneven surfaces of valuables. Although used frequently for jewellery and electrical items, it is equally suitable for tools, machinery and vehicles. Each bottle contains a unique chemical ‘code’ which is registered to the individual householder or business - conclusively proving ownership. It cannot be easily seen by the naked eye, is resistant to harsh weather conditions and is almost impossible to remove. The liquid glows under ultraviolet light making it easy for the Police to detect and, in addition to making it much easier to reunite stolen property with its rightful owner, Smartwater signage acts as a powerful deterrent.
The tractor will also be used as a way to highlight the activities of Lincolnshire Farm and Country Business Watch, a scheme that is designed to encourage people who live and work in the countryside to be vigilant, share their knowledge and reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism by reporting anything suspicious to the police.
The scheme was launched in 2005 and now has a membership of over 1,300 with new members being recruited regularly. Vigilance among rural communities plays an extremely important part in tackling rural crime and it is hoped that more people can be encouraged to be part of this network and really makes a difference where they live.
The idea for the ‘blue-light tractor’ came from Chief Inspector Phil Vickers, who is responsible for Community Safety in the East Division of Lincolnshire Police.
“The tractor looks like a bit of fun but its purpose is to capture the public’s attention and deliver the message that we take rural crime very seriously” said Chief Inspector Vickers. “We recognise that, when a working vehicle is stolen, it has a massive impact on businesses and livelihoods. However, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of rural crime and this month’s initiative is all about making them aware of the deterrents available.We are delighted to have the support of John Deere UK who have allowed us to use the tractor free of charge and the NFU who have funded the change of livery".
NFU’s regional director, Richard Hezlet said “Farm tractors and implements seem to be at the top of thieves’ shopping lists at the moment, so NFU is delighted to support Lincolnshire Police in its drive to make farmers aware of how they can better protect their farms. Our advice, as always, is to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police. We must help them by being their eyes and ears in the countryside and by making Lincolnshire a no-go area for thieves”.
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