Lincolnshire Police has added a tractor to its fleet of vehicles as part of a drive to tackle rural crime this autumn.

A John Deere 6630 tractor has been liveried in police stripes and comes complete with a blue light on top.

It will travel around farmers’ markets, auctions and other events across the county during September to promote ways of combating rural crime – such as Smartwater DNA marking.

It will also be used to highlight the Lincolnshire Farm and Country Business Watch, a scheme that encourages rural people to be vigilant, share their knowledge and reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism by reporting suspicious activity to police.

Chief Inspector Phil Vickers came up with the idea for the ‘blue-light tractor’, which was donated by John Deere, with the paint job funded by the NFU.

“The tractor looks like a bit of fun, but its purpose is to capture the public’s attention and deliver the message that we take rural crime very seriously,” he said.

“We recognise that, when a working vehicle is stolen, it has a massive impact on businesses and livelihoods. However, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of rural crime and this month’s initiative is all about making them aware of the deterrents available.”

NFU regional director Richard Hezlet added: “Farm tractors and implements seem to be at the top of thieves’ shopping lists at the moment, so NFU is delighted to support Lincolnshire Police in its drive to make farmers aware of how they can better protect their farms.

“Our advice, as always, is to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police. We must help them by being their eyes and ears in the countryside and by making Lincolnshire a no-go area for thieves.”