Cost of rural crime in Sussex is on the rise

Figures published today by countryside insurer NFU Mutual show that the financial impact of rural crime has almost doubled – with claims from some that thieves are becoming more brazen.

Analysis by the insurer of the claims it received from farmers, estimate that the cost to the county is almost half a million pounds. This is a significant increase from around £220,000 in 2015 to £440,000 in 2016.

Vandalism and burglary were the most likely offence, with machinery, quad bikes and tools at the top of the wish list. The NFU has not said how many crimes their figure relates to.

Some farmers have said they were reluctant to claim in case this caused a rise in their premium the following year. Instead they replaced materials themselves at a cost.

Upon taking office in 2012, Sussex police and crime commissioner (PCC) Katy Bourne pledged to treat rural crime as seriously as urban crime. In response to the figures released today, she said she recognises “the impact rural crime has on farmers and their families.” She urged those living and working in the rural communities to follow advice from Sussex Police on how they can protect themselves and their property.

Ms Bourne added that she felt it was “encouraging” that Sussex wasn’t featured in the top 30 worst affected counties.

Sussex Police have urged the public to report any crime or suspicious behaviour in order to assist them in building a more accurate picture of offending. They also echoed Katy Bourne’s 2012 pledged, saying they took rural crime “as seriously as any other.”

By Clare Calder