POLICE have issued a warning after an increase in rural crime in South Somerset.

They have asked rural communities to report any "suspicious activity".

But, despite the increase, police said they have had "a few success stories" lately.

Several items of stolen property were recovered, and they stopped a mini digger and trailer being stolen thanks to a call from a member of the public. They also seized a car they believe was linked to rural crime.

"The advice from us would be to make sure you have all serial numbers and identifying marks to hand just in case you are a unfortunate victim of rural crime," said a spokesperson for South Somerset Neighbourhood Policing.

"This helps us massively in returning stolen property if we manage to locate it.

"Please help us with the fight against rural crime and report any suspicious activity and if you have any information relating to rural crime please let us know.

"Remember if you see something in progress ring 999 and if it has already happened and is non urgent please call 101 or report online."