A NEW scheme aimed at reducing crime in rural areas was launched at the weekend in Portree.
The Rural Watch service covering Skye, Lochalsh and Lochcarron is a joint project between Police Scotland and NFU Scotland and was set up to raise awareness of the risks of criminal activity in rural areas. The scheme was launched at the Skye Agricultural Show on Saturday.
Jake Sayles, NFU senior agent and group secretary, said: ‘Unfortunately, rural crime is on the increase. Thefts from farms of quad bikes, tools and even heating oil have been reported recently and it could happen to anyone.