RURAL crime across the Midlands has risen for the first time in four years, according to a report published on Monday by Stratford-based rural insurer NFU Mutual.

Theft in the countryside increased by nearly four per cent across the region last year, the report said.

The report also revealed that three-quarters of NFU Mutual staff thought country people had become more worried about crime and opinion was split over the perceived success of farm and country watch schemes in deterring crime with nearly 58 per cent believing they had little or no effect.

Sid Gibson, underwriting manager for the firm, said: "We're concerned to see that rural theft is on the increase again. The traditional way of life in the countryside which past and present generations have found so appealing is based on trust and ability to go about work and leisure pursuits without the need for elaborate and expensive security measures.

"High levels of rural crime put this aspect of our rural heritage at risk."

Mr Gibson added: "Today's criminals appear to be more determined, increasingly thefts are taking place in broad daylight and we are hearing reports of thieves taking a double whammy approach, making a quick visit to see what's kept on the premises and to check what security measures are in place, and then returning later equipped with tools to break in."

He urged people living in the countryside to tighten and review security measures and to keep tools out of sight.