Police in North Yorkshire say they have recently seen a significant spike in rural crime in the Hambleton area, particularly in the north of the county around Great Ayton and Stokesley.

Officers said farming equipment, tools, off-road bikes, quad bikes and vehicles have been of particular interest to thieves.

A spokesperson said: “These have mainly been taken from outbuildings of farms and rural properties.

“As a result a policing operation is ongoing.

“We would encourage anybody with information they feel may be relevant to contact us.

“Our Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Rural Task Force can offer property marking to protect items.

“We also offer Rural Watch which is a free scheme set up to support communities in the fight against rural crime.”

Police can be contacted on 101. Officers are urging anyone who would like to take advantage of the property marking service to visit https://orlo.uk/e5qIB to find out more information.