Rural thieves are targeting classic Massey Fergusons and exporting them overseas due to the simpler level of mechanical maintenance, according to Wiltshire rural crime team.

The rural crime team said it is aware of farms being targeted, in surrounding counties and further afield, for older tractors and equipment.

Advice to farmers and other machinery owners is to make note of all serial numbers, VIN numbers, model numbers and identifying marks.

"Taking photos of the tractors - especially if there are any distinguishing marks or dents as this can be helpful to establishing rightful ownership," the team said.

"If you are a victim of theft, please call 999 straight away as stolen tractors will be quickly moved out of the area and country by the organised crime gangs believed to be behind the thefts."

Calne attempted quad theft

Calne Police is appealing for witnesses to the attempted theft of a quad bike.

This incident occurred between 10:00a.m on January 18 and 12:00p.m on January 19 in the Lickhill Road area of Calne, Wiltshire.

An unknown suspect or suspects attempted to steal the quad bike, which was then found the following morning stuck in ice a short distance from where it was stored.

PCSO Mark Cook of the Calne Neighbourhood Police Team said: "We have recently seen a spate of thefts of Land Rovers and quad bikes across the county and we would like to make you aware so you can consider extra security to protect your property."

Calne Police's advice for quad bike and vehicle safety includes:

Photograph your quad bike from all sides, mark it with your postcode, make it easily identifiable and list the serial/chassis number;
Fit with a tracker system from a reputable company;
If possible, install alarms in the unit where it is stored. CCTV systems, beam alarms and wildlife cameras should also be considered where possible;
Use wheel clamps, anchor bolts and high quality padlocks;
Immobilise it when not in use and keep out of sight - consider blocking in with other heavy items;
Always remove the key;
Report any suspicious activity. Often areas are scouted out a few weeks prior to a theft - alert your neighbours on who should or should not be on your premises;
Join local social media groups where possible that can make you aware of current issues.