Six people have been arrested following a crackdown on rural crime.

Five men and one woman, all from the Ashford area, were arrested on suspicion of burgling sheds, garages and outbuildings, as well as handling stolen goods.

They are all currently on bail pending further police inquiries.

The arrests followed a special operation throughout June, July and August in the rural parts of the district by Kent Police.

At the same time, a significant amount of suspected stolen property was seized, including 20 industrial batteries, seven lawn movers, five chainsaws and five bikes.

The operation has resulted in a 41% reduction in rural crime compared with the same time last year, with 16 fewer offences reported to police.

Inspector Andrew Judd said “The most significant result to come out of the operation is fewer victims of rural crime.

"Less crime means less hassle and heartache for people living and working in the rural parts of Ashford."

He added: “There is a lot people can do to help themselves and reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime."

For more information and advice go www.kent.police.uk.