POLICE officers in the local area have been receiving specialist training to help them combat thefts of machinery from farms.

The Rural Affairs Team at Devon and Cornwall Police has been working with VIN Chip to deliver specialist training to officers, strengthening their ability to identify stolen plant, agricultural machinery and equipment and recognise key indicators of theft.

A group of specialist police officers and staff from across the force recently attended a training session at Okehampton Police Station, where they shared practical knowledge on machinery identification and techniques used to establish an asset's provenance.

Led by Nick Mayell, trainer and identification specialist for construction plant and agricultural machinery and equipment at VIN Chip, the session explored the challenges of identifying stolen machinery and the role security marking plays in supporting police investigations.

PC Clarke Orchard, force lead for farm machinery, agricultural plant and agricultural vehicle theft, said: "The practical insight shared throughout the day was invaluable, helping officers develop their understanding of theft indicators and stolen machinery identification.

"Opportunities like this are really important in strengthening our collective capability to tackle rural crime. Our thanks go to Nick and the VIN Chip team for sharing their expertise and supporting our work."

VIN Chip combines forensic security marking and intelligent asset identification technology to help establish ownership and support the identification and recovery of stolen equipment.

Trainer Nick Mayell added: "Understanding how to identify machinery and recognise potential theft indicators can make a real difference when investigating stolen equipment.”

Devon and Cornwall Police will continue working collaboratively with partner agencies to share expertise and best practice, helping to prevent machinery theft and ensuring rural communities feel safe and supported.

For the latest rural crime updates and events, follow the Devon and Cornwall Police Rural Affairs team on Facebook: facebook.com/DCPolicerural.