POLICE in the Chard and Ilminster areas have been visiting second-hand dealers, car boot sales and scrap yards as part of Operation Fair Trade to make it harder for thieves to sell on stolen property.

Officers planned the week-long operation with South Somerset District Council licensing staff, and it took place across an area including Bruton, Castle Cary, Chard, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Martock, Merriott, Somerton and Wincanton.

Licensing officers joined police teams and visited the premises of bona-fide dealers to offer them crime prevention advice and tips on how to spot stolen goods if offered to them.

Sgt Vicky Rose, who co-ordinated the operation, said: "During the operation we visited 48 premises. This included joining with council licensing officers to visit six scrap metal dealers to check their records.

"We also called on antique and second-hand dealers to give them posters to display and ultra-violet lamps for checking property for security markings.

"An important message we need to get across to the public is the seriousness of selling on or buying stolen goods. Anyone found guilty of receiving stolen goods could face up to 14 years in prison.

"Thieves often target the most vulnerable people in our community, stealing goods they think they can sell for cash. Anyone who receives stolen goods or helps to dispose of them is encouraging theft. Don't be tempted to buy from dubious sources - no matter how good the 'bargain' seems to be."

Officers will use intelligence to target those responsible for selling on stolen goods. Anyone with information about people dealing in stolen property should call police on 0845 456 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.