IT will not be able to catch speeders or be much good in chasing down thieves, but the newest police vehicle to hit the roads around Boston will certainly attract attention.

As part of efforts to tackle rural crime, a John Deere 6630 tractor has been decorated in police stripes complete with a blue light on top and it will be the star attraction at various farmers' markets, auctions and events throughout September.

The new police tractor aimed at promoting efforts to tackle rural crime.

Intended to be a crowd-puller, the tractor will draw the attention of the public who can then learn more about the work being undertaken to combat crime out of town.

One such activity has seen Lincolnshire Police working alongside the National Farmers Union (NFU) to promote the use of Smartwater DNA marking.

The tractor will also be used as a way to highlight the activities of Lincolnshire Farm and Country Business Watch – a scheme that is designed to encourage people who live and work in the countryside to be vigilant, share their knowledge and reduce opportunities for crime and vandalism by reporting anything suspicious to the police.

The 'blue-light tractor' is the idea of Chief Inspector Phil Vickers, who is responsible for community safety in Lincolnshire Police's East Division.

He told the Target: "The tractor looks like a bit of fun, but its purpose is to capture the public's attention and deliver the message that we take rural crime very seriously.

"We recognise that, when a working vehicle is stolen, it has a massive impact on businesses and livelihoods.

"However, there are steps that individuals can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of rural crime and this month's initiative is all about making them aware of the deterrents available.

"We are delighted to have the support of John Deere UK who have allowed us to use the tractor free of charge and the NFU who have funded the change of livery."

NFU's regional director Richard Hezlet said: "Farm tractors and implements seem to be at the top of thieves' shopping lists at the moment, so NFU is delighted to support Lincolnshire Police in its drive to make farmers aware of how they can better protect their farms.

"Our advice, as always, is to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to the police. We must help them by being their eyes and ears in the countryside and by making Lincolnshire a no-go area for thieves."