Rural crime 'constant' and unreported, says farmer

A farmer has described rural crime as a persistent problem, despite figures suggesting its overall cost has fallen.

Andrew Compton, a sheep farmer in Outwood, Surrey, said farmers were regularly targeted for thefts and other offences and that some incidents were not reported.

He described issues including dog attacks on sheep, fly-tipping, theft and illegal access to land, adding that very few farmers were unaffected: "We've all been affected in some way, shape or form. It's a constant spectre."

An NFU Mutual report said the overall cost of rural crime had fallen, while Surrey Police said the force was "set up well" to deal with the issue and encouraged farmers to report incidents.

Compton also said a quad bike stolen from another farm was later found burnt out in a field during lambing time, adding that fuel and electrical equipment were also frequently targeted.

After the NFU Mutual report found organised criminals were targeting farms, he said: "Criminals look for the easiest way to make money for their industry, and we are a target."

Compton, who is vice-chairman of the Surrey NFU, said there were "not enough boots on the ground" in rural policing.

The NFU Mutual report estimated rural crime in the South East cost £6.8m in 2025, down 4% from £7.1m the previous year, but Compton suggested incidents went unrecorded because reporting crime was "laborious" and "cumbersome".

Ch Insp Chris Tinney, Surrey Police rural crime lead, said acquisitive crime remained the biggest local issue, including theft of trailers and fuel, while livestock attacks could be costly.

He said officers were carrying out high-visibility patrols and working with partners, including the National Crime Agency, to tackle organised crime and track stolen goods.

He added that police supported local authorities and the Environment Agency in tackling fly-tipping.

Tinney said Surrey Police had a dedicated rural crime team supported by a "whole-force approach", including neighbourhood policing and specialist operations such as roads policing, armed policing and air support.

He said the force's call response times were "well-within" expected levels, and he encouraged farmers to report incidents.

People can call 999 in emergencies or use online reporting tools, including Facebook and live chat.

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