The Stroud MP's weekly column.

This week Gloucestershire Constabulary is shining the spotlight on rural crime. Until the end of October, for Rural Crime Week there will be a number of events and police operations covering everything from poaching, fly tipping and the threats to protected species.

I very much welcome this drive as rural crime is a problem here in Stroud and we have recently seen a rise in it. A few weeks ago, 100s of lambs were stolen from a farm in the constituency and there has also been a rise in pet thefts too. The theft of farm vehicles and equipment is also a problem.

We are fortunate to have dedicated rural crime police officers locally and this shows the police do take the problem seriously. The rural team have extensive experience having spent years building up relationships with farmers, the NFU, animal wardens, charities and local people.

This is important as relationships that garner vital intelligence and the community spirit of the public and organisations are key to helping the police tackle rural crime. This type of criminal does not recognise borders and they often operate over a large area so we need resources and eyes and ears on the ground to deter and catch them. To do my bit, I’ve recently had meetings discussing rural matters with the police, the police and crime commissioner, council wardens, charities, the NFU & Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust to ensure we are all aligned in what needs to be done.

In Westminster, I am pushing for changes to legislation, sentencing guidelines and microchipping around animal theft and the campaign is gaining some traction. I was pleased the minister mentioned Stroud and my work here when she summed up in the recent dog theft debate. It’s now half term and I thank the organisers of half term activities across Stroud for making them Covid safe.