A RURAL watch scheme set up in 2007 has been awarded cash in the battle to keep it one step ahead of criminals.

Much of the scheme's success is down to Knutsford's PC Mike Dawber, who despite winning plaudits for his efforts, hasn’t rested on his laurels.

In the latest effort to maintain the reduction in rural crime, PC Dawber has been awarded £970 from the Cheshire Crime Commissioner's Crime Prevention Fund.

The cash will be used to provide signage promoting the scheme and to ensure that those involved are kept up to date on the latest use of technology against thieves.

In August 2014, the National Farmer's Union estimated that PC Dawber's efforts and those of the scheme's 350 members, had resulted in a near 40 per cent reduction in rural crime in Knutsford.

Last October PC Dawber was named the north west region's NRF Country Crimefighter of the Year.

As part of his efforts, he had helped deliver a range of crime prevention initiatives which included visiting farm premises to offer advice as well as devising a sticker to prevent tractor theft.

Mike was also commended for his work to gather criminal evidence after reviewing hours of CCTV footage and sitting through the night in rural lanes. He helped to convict eight men who stole £2m worth of plant and agricultural machinery from the Knutsford area.

Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner, John Dwyer said: “Crime in a rural area can bring the community to a halt, especially where this crime is committed against a rural business.

"I applaud the good work PC Dawber has done in combatting criminals. I want to continue to help him as he continues to make Knutsford an uninhabitable place for rural criminals.”

PC Dawber said he was pleased about the additional support of the Police and Crime Commissioner adding: “This sends out a clear message that the Commissioner takes rural crime seriously, and that we will continue to track down criminals who commit such crime. The funding will enable the work done in the rural community to continue in the future.”

For more information about the scheme go to www.cheshire.police.uk/get-involved/watch-schemes.