NEW figures have revealed that rural crime in Lancashire totalled an estimated £1.3 million during 2012.

The figures, produced by rural insurer NFU Mutual using claims data, include claims for crimes against homes, farms, commercial premises and vehicles.

Quad bikes topped the thieves’ wish list in Lancashire.

While tools and vehicles have also proved popular targets for criminals in the area.

Statistics from the survey also suggested that the majority of rural crime is planned rather than opportunist.

Kevin Woodcock, NFU Mutual Agent in Clitheroe, said: “As a mutual organisation owned by, and run for, our members we have a responsibility to work with country people to improve security and tackle crime.

“Even though rural crime has fallen, much more still needs to be done to thwart rural criminals and minimise the devastating impact of crime in the countryside.

“We’re starting to see the benefits from communities working hard with the police and wider industry. However, people shouldn’t become complacent.

“They need to make security a priority on their farms, businesses and homes.”

The survey also revealed some of the more unusual defence mechanisms used by NFU Mutual members to keep criminals at bay, including keeping geese to alert homeowners of trespassers.

The figures proved that many of these measures had paid off.

Overall UK cost of ‘agri-crime’ fell by 20 per cent in 2011.