Police have stepped up patrols around Ulverston to combat rural crime.

The Ulverston Community Team has been busy with high-visibility mobile patrols while a long-term strategy to tackle the crimes-particularly illegal off-roading is formed.

A Cumbria Police spokesman said: “Our dedicated operation targeting theft from rural areas, codenamed Operation Lantern, continues.

“Residents are reminded to ensure that vehicles, tools and machinery are secured. Don’t make it easy for thieves.

“As part of our operation we will continue to patrol our rural communities to prevent incidents from occurring.”