Residents are being alerted to a suspicious vehicle that may be displaying 'security' signs near Dorchester.

Dorset Police's Rural Crime Team described the vehicle in question as a silver Ford Transit custom, with the letters 'YK**YKL' in its registration.

This vehicle may also be displaying magnetic 'security' signs on it, police say.

According to reports the vehicle has been seen in suspicious circumstances around the Cerne Valley area near Dorchester over the last couple of days.

Members of the public are asked not to report sightings to police via social media to avoid being publicly identified to the owners of the vehicle.

A spokesman said: "If this vehicle or other vehicles are seen acting suspiciously, please gather as much information as possible, such as the registration number and descriptions of the driver and any passengers, and please contact Dorset Police immediately by calling 999 if the vehicle or occupants are seen committing crime."

For non-emergencies call 101 or report via www.dorset.police.uk or email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk.

If you wish to remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers' Rural Crime Reporting Line by calling 0800 783 0137 or visiting www.ruralcrimereportingline.uk/

To become a member of farm, horse or rural watch and receive up to date messages of crimes, incidents or suspicious vehicles in your area, as well as practical advice, visit www.dorsetalert.co.uk/