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Rural came to the city this week on Tuesday 4th June as the Hamilton Ross Group and Scottish Partnership Against Rural Crime (SPARC) took up post on George Square, Glasgow in the fight against rural crime.
SPARC in the City – an event which aimed to speak to those who live, work or visit rural areas – saw various organisations involved in SPARC interacting with those in the city centre throughout the day.
This event is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness of rural crime and educate the public on the impact it can have with issues such as fly-tipping and livestock worrying.
Our Hamilton Ross Group Police branded Valtra T174EA and Kubota RTV X1110 took centre stage with many stopping to take photos and engage in conversation about rural crime. There was also a branded skip at the event, alongside police horses and activities for children.
Speaking on behalf of SPARC, Inspector Alan Dron, National Rural Crime Co-ordinator said: “We are delighted Glasgow City Council has provided this opportunity to highlight its work within the heart of the city. Regardless of geographical location, across Scotland our partners and police work extremely hard to make a real difference to communities and today is about raising awareness of rural crime and the steps being taken to reduce it.
“Rural crime can impact on us all and it should be remembered incidents relating to for example high value theft of plant equipment or fly tipping are just as relevant to urban areas as they are to the rural. By bringing some of the work SPARC does into the centre of Glasgow, hopefully SPARC can help those who enjoy the rural environments to do so responsibly and contribute in whatever way to what we are trying to achieve.
“SPARC, with the combined effort of all 16 partners, is making great traction in this fight against rural crime and we have some exciting announcements and events coming up to help us see more results for the rural community in Scotland.”
This event is one of over 30 in which the Hamilton Ross Group SPARC tractor and/or RTV are due to attend this summer to raise awareness of the issue. Hamilton Ross Group Managing Director, Eric Gardiner, commented:
“It has been wonderful to see so many people, including those within and out with the farming industry, engage with this campaign. In our role as machinery dealers, we often see first hand the impact rural crime has on our customers and other parts of society. When SPARC approached us about getting involved in this initiative we were fully supportive as it sends a vital message to the rural sector that we are all working together to crack down on rural crime across the country.”
Did you miss SPARC in the City? The SPARC Tractor or RTV could still be coming to an event near you. Follow our Facebook and Twitter for further updates!
