Dyfed-Powys Police have stepped up patrols in order to tackle thefts of farm equipment, they say.

DPP's rural crime team say they're working with neighbouring forces after a rise in thefts of quad bikes in South Powys which has seen seven stolen since in the area since the end of April.

PC Tom Songhurst said: "We have increased patrols in rural communities to protect those vulnerable to quad theft and will continue with our efforts.

"We have improved our response to suspicious incidents/vehicles, with reassurance being provided by Neighbourhood Policing Teams and the Rural Crime Team. "

As a direct result of this proactive work, police say there have been a number of successes in catching offenders and returning quad bikes to their owners.

A Quad stolen at the end of March from the Crickhowell area was recovered recently in the Hereford area, and two males arrested.

On May 1, following information from Gwent Police, Dyfed- Powys arrested a 17-year-old man from Tredegar on suspicion of handling stolen goods. A quad bike was recovered during a search of his property and returned to its rightful owner in Hereford.

Overnight on Friday May 10, two quad bikes were stolen from farms in Talybont on Usk and Lllanhamlach, recovered by police and returned to the owners before they realised they had been stolen.

"Can I ask all farmers to play a part in keeping their property safe and take steps to secure their quad bikes appropriately. Take keys out of the ignition and store them safely away from the machines," added PC Songhurst.

"I must also urge anyone who sees something suspicious in their area, whether that is a vehicle or person, to report it to police on 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress."

Officers say anyone with information on quad bike thefts should contact Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.