RURAL crime is taken very seriously in Wiltshire and a number of schemes have been operated in recent years to combat it.

Now a new scheme aimed at uniting rural communities in the fight against crime is being launched.

'Rural Watch' will provide a means for the police, specialist groups and residents to exchange information quickly.

It will incorporate many of the existing schemes which operate in the countryside and will also be supported by the Ministry of Defence police who have many tenant farmers, stables, shoots and deer management groups operating on their land.

Membership is being actively encouraged from landowners, employees, those who use the countryside for recreation together with national organisations such as the National Trust, RSPCA, Forestry Comm-ission, Ramblers Association and the National Farmers Union.

Information will be exchanged through a telephone cascade system and by e-mail.

As well as receiving reports and advice from the police, members are encouraged to contact one another regarding incidents in their area.

Rural Watch was launched on Wednesday at Antrobus House in Amesbury.