WARNINGS have been issued about rural crime after thieves targeted homes and businesses.

People have been urged to be on their guard against criminals and protect their properties.

Bridport police are investigating a series of crimes which occurred over a few days in west Dorset villages.

In the early hours of Friday, June 30, three people broke into a van and then tried to break into a second van, in the Broadwindsor area. They were disturbed and left the area in a large white car, possibly an Audi.

Between Sunday, June 25 and Monday, June 26, offenders stole a cattle handling system from an isolated area near Powerstock.

Thieves broke into business premises and associated guest properties in the Burton Bradstock area between Friday, June 23 and Sunday, June 25. They stole fishing equipment, power tools, a quad bike and a quantity of fuel.

Burton Bradstock is a popular area for holiday goers, and many farms in the area have holiday properties attached.

One farmer with holiday properties in the area said: "Any rural area should have concerns. We do get theft in Burton Bradstock, fortunately not as bad as some areas but that doesn't mean we shouldn't be vigilant."

A spokesperson for the South West branch of the National Farmers Union said: "I think hearing about these kinds of crime is always a salutary reminder about the importance of keeping your property as secure as you can - security marking is always a good idea as it makes items less attractive to thieves.

"The NFU is in close touch with Dorset Police about rural crime issues and we advise farmers to make sure they are members of their local Farm Watch scheme so they can be alerted about any problems in the area."

A spokesperson from Dorset Police said: "We are committed to working with our rural businesses to help reduce crime and protect their property from offenders.

"We work hard to engage with members of the rural community through our dedicated Rural Crime Team so that they feel confident in reporting incidents to Dorset Police and to proactively raise awareness of the latest crime prevention advice.

"For crime prevention advice visit www.dorset.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime."

A spokesperson for Bridport Police said: "Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us, at the time on 101. If you believe a crime is in progress, call 999."

If you have any information about the above crimes contact Dorset Police - for the Brodwindsor incident quote reference 55230101466; for Powerstock quote 55230098934; for Burton Bradstock quote 55230098637.