Fight against rural crime

Fight against rural crime in the spotlight next week

North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Task Force is joining a nationwide clampdown on rural crime next week.

National Rural Crime Action Week is an annual campaign led by the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN) to raise awareness of rural crime.

The 2026 week of action runs from 6 September. In North Yorkshire and York, the Rural Task Force (RTF) - which this year marks its tenth anniversary - will be taking part in operational activity and community engagement throughout the week.

The RTF will be highlighting the work it carries out every day to tackle rural crime, protect agricultural businesses and wildlife, disrupt organised criminality, and support communities across one of England's most rural policing areas.

The team will also use the week to meet with farmers, landowners, rural businesses and residents to better understand local concerns and encourage the reporting of crime and suspicious activity.

Detective Chief Superintendent Nikki Shimwell, North Yorkshire Police's Head of Crime and Operational Support, said: "Rural crime has a significant impact on the people who live and work in North Yorkshire and York. From machinery theft and fly-tipping to poaching, wildlife crime and livestock offences, these crimes can have serious financial and emotional consequences for victims.

"National Rural Crime Action Week is an opportunity to highlight these issues, showcase the extensive work being carried out to protect rural communities, and strengthen the partnerships that are essential to tackling crime in our countryside."

In addition to increased operational activity, the RTF will be at Moorcock Show on Sunday 6 September, and Ruswarp Auction Mart on Wednesday 9 September. There will also be many other opportunities to meet the team - keep an eye on police social media for details.

Members of the public are urged to support the work of North Yorkshire Police in rural communities by reporting crime and suspicious activity. All information helps police build intelligence, identify offenders and target resources where they are needed most.

Anyone who witnesses a crime in progress should call 999. Non-emergency incidents can be reported online via the North Yorkshire Police website, or by calling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.