POLICE in Burnham and Highbridge say they have had a “packed start” to their Christmas crime prevention campaign, Operation Hamper, geared towards thefts and burglary around Avon and Somerset’s rural homes and businesses.

Police Specials have been playing an active part in the crackdown, with a team of 45 working across the area giving their support to the operation, providing security checks on 20 vulnerable premises and 240 vehicles so far being stop-checked.

Sgt Stuart Williams, of the Rural Crime Team, said: “We’ve been pleased with the number of people we have signed up for our Farmwatch and Horsewatch schemes, and arranged property marking, but most importantly we have received some really positive feedback from the rural communities who have appreciated our presence, and also the joint work with our neighbouring forces on a common purpose.”

Police have set up crime prevention displays at Mole Valley Farmers’ store in Bawdrip and the feed mill at Huntworth, providing people with information on how to stop rural thefts and burglaries.

An increase in theft of livestock, heating oil, food items and burglaries, not only of residential property but also farm shops and seasonal businesses, is often anticipated in the runup to Christmas.

This campaign incorporates a number of activities to tackle issues related to the festive period, such as keeping your Christmas gifts safe and helping people to stay safe over the party season.