Farmers in Dorset are being warned to be 'vigilant' following a spate of GPS thefts. 

Officers from Dorset Police's Rural Crime Team have issued the warning after thefts of the guiding technology have risen across the UK. 

Farmers typically use GPS to accurately deliver products into fields, it also helps lowering costs, avoid waste and reducing environmental impact.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police Rural Crime Team said: "We’re urging farmers to be vigilant, after a series of Global Positioning System (GPS) thefts in parts of the UK.

READ: Dorset Police launch operation to prevent livestock attacks

"Farms in Lincolnshire, Essex, South Wales, North Yorkshire and Thames Valley are known to have been targeted by organised criminals, looking to steal GPS systems.

"If you use a GPS or Precision Agricultural System (PAS), we recommend: activating PIN security on GPS kit with your own unique number, if possible. 

"Marking your postcode on the casing to deter thieves and trace your property back to you. 

"Recording serial numbers and keeping photos on your kit.

"Removing the receiver and storing securely when not in use.

"Using a security mounting plate, which may deter prepared criminals.

If you have information relating to recent suspicious activity or attempted GPS theft, report it to us by calling 101 or using the form on our website: https://orlo.uk/z6W59/

"If a crime is happening now, always call 999."