Last updated 21:54, Wednesday, 09 July 2008

SCOTLAND’S farming union is urging its members to show extra vigilance to help prevent farm thefts after its own president was targeted.

NFUS president Jim McLaren’s farm was targeted by thieves last Thursday and he is now calling on all members to ensure they step up their security and vigilance to ensure they don’t become victims themselves.

The union is urging anyone who sees anything, or anyone, unusual on a farm, no matter how innocuous it may seem, to call the police.

Mr McLaren said: “My farm was targeted by a group of thieves and while they are now fortunately behind bars, I hope this experience can serve as a timely reminder to everyone of the importance of security.

“Many of these people seem to be operating as part of organised gangs and they plan well. They visited my farm during the day asking questions about our fuel supplies and were obviously performing some kind of recce.

“They returned in the early evening before being caught red-handed by my dairyman at 3.30am as they ferried all sorts of items to the farm boundary, we can only assume for later collection by a vehicle.

“I want to urge all farmers to think carefully about their security. We have already heard some horrendous reports of on-farm fuel thefts since prices started to rise and I want to make sure we are all protecting ourselves as much as possible.

“My message is simple; if in doubt, call the police.”