Police are urging machinery dealers, contractors and farmers to be on the alert following a series of thefts of agricultural tractors from machinery dealer's yards in recent months. Said PC Max Bevan, of Pembroke Dock Police Station: "We have noticed similarities in the crimes in that all three tractors stolen are four wheel drive in the 80 to 90HP range and fitted with front end loaders" "Within the trade these are described as livestock/ grassland tractors and therefore are very desirable particularly at this time of year." In September, a New Holland TS90, fitted with a Quicke 750 front end loader, was taken from St. Clears, while in October, a John Deere 6310, fitted with a Quicke 750 front end loader, was taken from Narberth. Last month, a Case 4210, fitted with a Quicke 330 front end, loader was stolen from Crymych. Added PC Bevan: "I advise that where practicable tractors are immobilised when not in use, many tractors now have complicated electronic features which mean that this can be done reasonably easily." The police advise owners to review their security features as, in each of the above crimes, the offenders have cut or removed physical barriers to get the tractors out. Ensure that all external lighting is working and it is advised this be high pressure sodium or metal halide type units on a dusk to dawn setting. The fitting of a suitable CCTV system can provide a useful deterrent to criminal activity. For specialist crime prevention advice, please contact your local police crime prevention officer on 0845 330 2000. Any information in relation to these crimes can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
