The charity Crimestoppers has launched a new campaign encouraging people to speak up about those responsible for harming our precious Welsh countryside.

The initiative comes as the international tourist season starts. With many people planning trips to the countryside, the potential impact of large numbers of visitors can increase the risk of crime happening.

Whilst the volume of crime in rural areas is lower than in urban area, the consequences and impact within a rural community can be much deeper, both on victims, the environment and the community as a whole.

Crimestoppers is asking the public to spot the signs of rural crime and to give them information 100 per cent anonymously.

Crimestoppers is independent of the police and gives the public an alternative option to pass on what they know about crime whilst never giving any personal details. They never ask for your personal details, just what you know about crime.

From April to June this year, Crimestoppers in Wales saw a 10 per cent rise in crime information it received compared to the same period last year.

This resulted in Crimestoppers passing on more than 10,000 crime reports to the police and other law enforcement agencies over the past year.

The charity is at the Royal Welsh Show this week, to encourage communities to speak up about crime and to give tips on how to keep safe and rural crime signs to spot.

Hayley Fry, National Wales Manager for Crimestoppers, said:“ Our charity is very aware of how damaging crime in the countryside can be to families, communities, rural businesses, farmers, wildlife and the local environment.  We hear from people every day who tell us about those involved in theft, fly-tipping, drug and wildlife crime.

“By telling Crimestoppers anonymously what you know whether you live in or are visiting a rural area, together we can make all the difference.”

To report rural crime 100 per cent anonymously, visit the charity’s website Crimestoppers-uk.org and fill in a secure online form anonymously or call their 24/7 UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111, 365 days of the year. In an emergency, always call 999.