Police in Mid-Wales confirmed yesterday that 80 sheep have been stolen from common land in Mid Wales. Dyfed-Powys police said the animals were taken from the Beacon Hill area between 31st July and last Friday.image expired

The force has warned farmers and locals to remain vigilant. The farming press has reported an increase in rural crime, including livestock theft, since last year, as rising prices set against a background of global recession have proven irresistible to organised gangs.

However, police statistics show that reported crime has dropped this year, particularly in rural regions. Nevertheless, the police do encourage farmers to sign up to the Farm Watch scheme.

Tim Price, of insurers, NFU Mutual, commented after the thefts, “Up to 90 per cent of rustling involves sheep. But we do see the occasional cow being stolen for people’s personal food and butchery or to be sold in a local sale.”