The Country Land and Business Association has issued a warning over the threat of rural crime, levels of which reach their peak in October and November as nights draw in.

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The Landowners' group said more burglaries take place over the late autumn months than at any other time during the year. A number of police forces across the country have made similar calls, including Cumbria Constabulary.

Police in Cumbria said burglary rates could rise by up to 31 percent over the autumn months.  

Terry Belshaw, Community Safety Officer for Cumbria Constabulary said, "The darkness can provide cover for thieves and can help them to identify if a property is empty.  We would ask homeowners to consider security lighting to illuminate anyone moving about your property. Make your home look occupied, even in those murky winter afternoons, when there would be a light on if the housed was occupied. You can use time switches on lights or play a radio or TV. Flashing image boxes which simulate TVs are available at low cost.

"Don't let a potential criminals see inside your home, keep curtains closed or restrict the view, don't leave keys and valuable items like mobiles and laptops where they can be seen from outside. Always keep your doors locked and if you cannot remember locking up, then check. Don't leave an open invitation for a thief to walk into your home"

The message is especially important for those living in isolated areas. CLA said the combination of the clocks going back and continued economic uncertainty for many could lead to a marked increase in rural crime.

Douglas Chalmers CLA North Director of Policy and Public Affairs said, "Each year we seem to experience an increase in crime in the countryside almost as soon as the clocks go back. This winter, with more people already struggling to pay their bills and now facing higher heating costs, experience sadly suggests that we could see a bigger increase than usual.

"Again sadly, rural areas present the greatest opportunity for thieves. Isolated houses and buildings, less lighting, fewer witnesses and the ease of being able to watch the owner's movements all add up to a very attractive target."

Mr Chalmers urged farmers and rural residents to ensure their properties are secure; tools and equipment should never be left lying around and ignition keys should never be left in vehicles or in highly visible places, he said. He added that security lights can also be an effective deterrent and urged farmers to look for weak spots, including areas of permanent darkness around their premises.