RESIDENTS have been warned to be vigilant after a rise in rural burglaries.

West Mercia Police has noted a rise in outbuilding burglaries in rural locations and towns in North Shropshire.

A North Shropshire Neighbourhood Watch spokesman said: "The offenders are usually after high value items that can be sold on through the second hand market."

Items include power tools, hedge strimmers, lawnmowers and similar items.

In addition to thefts from residential properties, there have been a number of thefts from farms and small

holdings.

While these have included high value small items, we have also seen large agricultural vehicles stolen.

The spokesman added: "The Safer Neighbourhood Team are conducting patrols around the rural roads in our area but our best asset in

Crime Prevention are the reports we get from people concerning suspicious activity.

"Such reports are normally made when a member of the public notices something that seems out of place, such as a vehicle in a remote

area.

"In order to assist the police the more detail that you can provide the better, especially relevant is a vehicle

registration and a good description of anybody seen in suspicious circumstances.

"There are a number of ways you can alert the police to suspicious activity, ringing 101 is the usual method.

"However, if a crime is actually taking place, or you believe someone is in physical danger, please don't hesitate

to ring 999."

Crime prevention advice is available at www.westmercia.police.uk/article/13049/Farm-and-outbuilding-crime-prevention