NFU Mutual warns farmers over sharp rise in quad bike thefts

A major surge in thefts of quad bikes is putting extra pressure on sheep farmers at the busiest time of year, NFU Mutual has warned.

A continued increase in thefts this year has prompted a warning to farmers to ramp up their security.

Latest theft claims figures from the rural insurer show a 26% annual increase in the cost of quad theft bringing the total value to £2.8m in 2022.

Quad thefts at busy lambing time can leave farmers struggling to look after their sheep when they are at their most vulnerable.