A new campaign was launched today by the charity Crimestoppers and Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, to combat the increase of thefts of quad bikes across the county.
The charity is urging the public to report anonymously to them anyone who is selling cut-price quad bikes, those involved in the thefts, information about the vehicles used to transport them and the buildings where they are stored before being sold on.
Nationally, over 2.3 million pounds worth of quad bikes where stolen last year and this causes massive inconvenience for farmers. Over 80 quad bikes were stolen in Cumbria alone last year.
Farmers should make sure that their quad bikes are out of sight at night, fitted with a tracking device and locked away to deter opportunist thieves. It is also recommended that they report to the police or through one of the rural messaging sites any suspicious vehicles or people around their farms.
Gary Murray, North West Regional Manager for the charity Crimestoppers, said: “Cumbria is one of the safest and most beautiful parts of the UK, but sadly criminals are targeting our farming community and we have recently seen an increase in the theft of quad bikes across the county.
“We all have a part to play in helping stop these thefts and we encourage everyone with information about who is responsible to contact us anonymously by phone on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.”
“When you contact Crimestoppers we won’t ask your name. Won’t judge. Just listen to what you know. When you hang up the phone or click `send’, you’re done. In over 31 years our charity has always kept its promise that everyone who contacts us stays 100% anonymous. Always.”
Peter McCall, Cumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, said: “Quad bike theft is on the rise in Cumbria and the Police are doing everything they can to stop these thieves and retrieve stolen bikes.
“However; the police cannot help without information from the public. Locals know their area better than anyone and can spot someone or something different and suspicious straight away.
“I always recommend reporting to 101, but I understand that in small communities sometimes it’s better to remain anonymous.
“That’s why the charity Crimestoppers is such a fantastic option – it’s 100% anonymous and you do not have to deal with the police directly. The information you have could really help to protect your own or a neighbour’s vital tools or vehicles, please report anything which looks suspicious.”
To stay 100% anonymous please contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
