DEVON and Cornwall Police’s Rural Affairs team are urging North Cornwall’s residents too stay vigilant for livestock theft.

The team is are encouraging farmers in the area to keep an eye out and to report any suspicious goings on to 999 in an emergency, or 101 on the phone or via the Devon and Cornwall Police website at dc.police.uk - Report livestock theft online in a non-emergency.

A spokesperson from the team said: “Grazing animals can be an easy target especially in remote rural locations. Check on your animals regularly, and Know what stock you have, and where it is grazing at any time.”

The experts have told residents to report any suspicious vehicles.

As well as this, they are urging farmers to improve security around the area where the animals graze, as well as implementing ear tags, horn brands, freeze marking, hoof branding, tattoos and microchips in order to help identify animals if they are stolen.

The spokesperson continued: “In the case of cattle (cattle, bison or buffalo) you will need to report the loss or theft of an animal to the British Cattle Movement Service within seven days.

“Remember, a horse passport is a legal requirement. You can find out how to apply for a horse passport.

“The team have been out in North Cornwall raising awareness with local farmers and will continue to do this throughout other parts of the two counties, but we need you to be our eyes and ears on the ground. If something wrong is going on- talk to us about it.”