NFU Scotland is urging extra vigilance to help prevent farm thefts after the union's own president was targeted.

NFU Scotland is urging extra vigilance to help prevent farm thefts after the union's own president was targeted.

Jim McLaren had his farm targeted by thieves on Wednesday night and is calling on all members to ensure that they step up their secur-ity to ensure that they do not become victims.

The union is urging anyone who sees anything, or anyone unusual on their farm, no matter how innocuous it may seem, to call the police.

Speaking after the incident, McLaren said: "My farm was targeted by a group of thieves last night and, while they are now fortunately behind bars, I hope that this experience can serve as a timely reminder to everyone of the importance of security.

"Many of these people seem to be operating as part of organised gangs and they plan well. They visited my farm during the day asking questions about our fuel supplies and were obviously performing some sort of recce.

"They then returned in the early evening before being caught red handed by my dairyman at 3.30am as they ferried all sorts of items to a point on the farm boundary, we can only assume for later collection by vehicle. I want to urge all farmers to think carefully about their security.

"We have already heard some horrendous reports on farm fuel thefts since prices started to rise.

"My message is simple: if in doubt, call the police."