SPECIALIST officers will be brought in to deal with crimes against wildlife and the environment as part of a new rural crime strategy.

Police chiefs unveiled the latest approach on Friday, and say trained rural and wildlife officers will continue to deal with crime in the countryside.

Following a survey it was revealed that rural crime is usually under-reported to the force.

But the strategy aims to work with organisations such as the National Farmers Union, the Environment Agency, parish councils, and others, to combat crime.

Sergeant Tom Carter has led a campaign to educate dog walkers in a bid to cut down on the number of livestock deaths, working alongside farmers to deal with incidents.

Meanwhile Operation Traverse has seen the force working with the Angling Trust and the National Wildlife Crime Unit to encourage anglers to inform the police about wildlife crime.

Assistant Chief Constable Nick May said Superintendent Emma Brice is working as the dedicated strategic lead in rural crime alongside Sgt Carter.

He said: “Officers are coordinating how we prevent, respond to, and investigate rural crime to keep communities safe and feeling safe at a local level.

“As part of our commitment to keeping rural communities safe and building confidence in the services provided by us and our partners, we will soon be inviting people to join the new Sussex Countrywatch Partnership.

“This will provide the opportunity for those living and working in, and visiting, rural areas to sign up to receive information about rural crime and prevention advice to protect their homes and businesses.”

The strategy follows the rural crime survey which villagers and residents were asked to complete earlier this year.

Mr May said it will help the force respond to changing demands while continuing to modernise. He said its success will depend on the police working with partners both in person and by using technology.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said: “The new Rural Crime Strategy recognises the importance that particular crimes have for people living and working in our rural areas.

“It’s only right that residents know these crimes are being taken as seriously as those in urban parts of Sussex.

"I remain focused on this issue and welcome the fact that Sussex Police acknowledge the recommendations from the National Rural Crime Survey.”