Farmers aid police in crime blitz

A major police operation has taken place aimed at cracking down on rural crime in County Durham.

More than 60 farmers and gamekeepers joined 20 Durham police officers and HM Customs and Revenue staff in Monday's operation in Teesdale and Weardale.

The move follows incidents of property theft and livestock rustling.

During the night operation, 25 vehicles were stopped for a variety of driving offences. One driver was handed an instant £500 fine for using red diesel.

Ch Insp Bill Dutton, of Durham Police, said: "This operation demonstrates how the community in the form of committed volunteers are working with the police on prevention and enforcement.

"While crime is incredibly low in the area, and continues to fall year-on-year, police, partners and communities are becoming increasingly coordinated and focused on what matters in their rural area."