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Lancashire Times
A Voice of the Free Press
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Andy Harris
Motoring and Property Editor
@ytimesmotoring
1:00 AM 22nd January 2025
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Thefts Are On The Increase - Quad Bike And Pickup Truck Owners Beware

Over the last few weeks, North Yorkshire Police has seen a sharp increase in the theft of quad bikes, all-terrain vehicles and pickup trucks.

If you are an owner, you should be aware that thieves are particularly active at the moment and the advice is to take every step you can to keep your quad or ATV safe.

They say:
“We understand that these vehicles are important pieces of equipment for farmers and businesses and that having to return them to outbuildings every night and lock them up to keep them safe and secure is an inconvenience – it’s much easier to leave the kit where you’ll need it tomorrow. But sadly, at the moment, the chances are if you leave it insecure, it’s an easy target for a thief and you won’t have it at all.”


North Yorkshire Police are working hard with neighbouring forces to keep thieves out and are running daily proactive patrols to deter thefts and catch criminals. However, there are steps owners can take to keep their vehicles safe.
When you are not using your quad, remove the keys and store them well away from the vehicle.
Keep your quad out of sight and use devices such as steering locks, ball hitch or frame locks and wheel clamps that are bolted to the ground.
Ensure the building it’s stored in is closed and padlocked.
Use trackers and immobilisers. Not only is this a deterrent but it can also increase the chance of the police recovering the stolen vehicle and identifying who to return it to.
Review your security and consider CCTV as this also works as a deterrent and is great for overall security.
Take a note of serial numbers and photograph your vehicles. Be sure to capture any unique and identifying features.

This list is by no means comprehensive but hopefully provides some advice to help you keep your property safe.

A good farming friend of mine had both his ATV and quad stolen a few years ago. The theft took place on one of the very few nights that he was away from the farm on business. His farm was clearly being watched! Although both vehicles were spotted being driven away in the middle of the night, neither were recovered and a large insurance claim had to be made.

My local Facebook forums a full of incidents and newly emerging are reports of Toyota Hilux pickups being stolen. Apparently, this is a nationwide problem with the following advice now circulating:
Fit a ghost immobiliser
Pedal box lock
Steering wheel lock

Let’s try and keep those thieves at bay.