WILTSHIRE Police have warned farmers across Wiltshire to be on their guard following a number of thefts of GPS units on Tuesday.

Thefts were carried out on three farms in North Wiltshire with more taking place just over the border in Gloucestershire.

Global positioning systems being removed from tractors can cause significant disruption to farm business.

Detective Sergeant Darren Penny said: “We’re currently investigating a number of GPS thefts throughout the Wiltshire where both receivers and screens have been removed from tractors.

"We know that a gang of thieves is targeting farms because they think security will be lax at the busiest time of the year.

“These thefts are regularly costing farmers thousands alongside the inconvenience to get these systems replaced.

“Whilst in the full swing of harvest (between the breaks in the weather), this would be an ideal opportunity to remind farmers the importance to lock away their GPS systems overnight.

“We appreciate that you are finishing late in the evening and starting early to progress harvest, but I would urge you to take just a few moments to remove these kits and lock them away overnight.”

Anyone with information can contact Wiltshire Police by calling 101.