Local MSP Rachael Hamilton brought together an alliance of organisations and politicians in the Scottish Parliament recently to condemn rural crime and the theft of farm equipment.
The Borders MSP held an event at Holyrood on Thursday, February 6 alongside the National Farmers Union Mutual and the National Rural Crime Unit.
The session was attended by MSPs of various parties, NFU Mutual, JCB, the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the off road vehicle company ATV Services and the National Rural Crime Unit.
Scottish Borders MSP, Rachael Hamilton, said: "The menace of rural crime and equipment theft is harming our local economy and leaving many businesses struggling to make ends meet.
"I'm working hard to bring together key organisations and politicians of all parties so we can sort this out.
"I know from speaking to many farmers and small businesses across the rural economy that crime rates have been rising in recent years.
"I am determined to change this and this event is only the start as I will continue to push forward with my plans for an Equipment Theft Bill to give farmers and businesses the protection they deserve.
"Thank you to the National Rural Crime Unit, which has done excellent work since it was established, and NFU Mutual for joining me to host this event.
