DEVON and Cornwall Police has received a report of five Angus cross bullocks stolen from a farm in the vicinity of Bampton, Tiverton, between 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 9 and 9am on Thursday, April 10.

Devon and Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team ask farmers to please be vigilant for any suspicious activity, persons or vehicles present in or around your land and if you have any information please telephone using the police 101 number using police reference: 151 of 10/04/2025. A spokesperson said: “Livestock thefts are on the increase in both counties and we are working with farmers to reduce the impact of this crime.”

The Team says prevention requires a mix of deterrents, tracking and vigilance. It adds: “Please consider these crime prevention activities to protect your livestock: • Hinder vehicle access: Block unused access points with obstacles like ditches, boulders of locked gates.

• Secure loading areas: Ensure sheep or livestock can't be easily herded into a vehicle near a roadside.

• Mark sheep/livestock clearly: Make it easy for Police to identify stolen sheep/cattle.

• Know who's on your land: Work with other local farmers to report any unusual activity. • Report suspicious sales: If you hear of any sheep/cattle being sold cheaply without proper documentation, alert the Police.

• Keep regular head counts: Count livestock daily, especially in high-risk areas. • Detailed records: Maintain up to date records with photos, distinguishing marks and ID numbers. • Secure perimeters: Check fencing regularly for weaknesses or gaps where thieves could gain access.

In addition there have been a range of rural thefts locally recently.

There was a break-in at Copplestone Farm Shop one evening and a quad bike was stolen from a farm at High Bickington.

In an emergency or if thieves are still at the scene, the advice is to telephone the police on 999.