Farmers warned over diesel thefts

Farmers in North Yorkshire are being urged to be on their guard against diesel thieves, said police.

North Yorkshire Police issued the warning to farmers in the Hambleton area after a number of thefts of fuel from combine harvesters and tractors.

Insp Paul Stephenson said machinery left unattended in fields had been targeted recently.

He said: "Fit a locking fuel cap and don't fill the vehicles up the the brim with fuel."

Farmers are also being told to lock their machinery in sheds or barns at night.

Mr Stephenson also urged farmers to join the Vale Watch scheme which operates a text messaging alert system warning other members of current crime problem in the area.

To join the alert service contact Easingwold police station.