A SURGE in anti-social behaviour (ASB) on Salisbury Plain has sparked a visible police response, with officers stepping up patrols to protect the countryside.

Mere and Tisbury Police said their Rural Crime Action Team (RCAT) was out in force following “several reports of ASB off roading, poaching and criminal damage”.

The team spent the night targeting key routes and known hotspots across the Plain, an area frequently used by the military but also popular with walkers and visitors.

Officers say their presence was not just about enforcement, but prevention.

During the patrols, they stopped to speak with people using the land, with police reporting “plenty of positive conversations” as they worked to raise awareness and discourage illegal activity.

The operation was aimed at supporting the Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA) as well as farmers, who are often the ones most affected by rural crime.

Illegal off-roading can cause serious damage to land and habitats; while poaching and vandalism pose risks to livestock, wildlife and property.

Police believe increased visibility is key to deterring offenders and reassuring the rural community.

They are now urging the public to play their part.

Anyone who spots suspicious activity on the Plain is asked to report it with officers stressing that information from the public can make a real difference in tackling rural crime.