A tractor has been given a police makeover, including a flashing blue light, to help tackle crime in rural areas.

Lincolnshire police force has added the John Deere 6630 tractor to its fleet of crime-fighting vehicles.

Officers will use it to patrol farmers' markets, agricultural auctions and other events during the autumn to promote the combat of crime in the countryside.

It will also play a pivitol role in highlighting the Lincolnshire Farm and Country Business Watch, a neighbourhood watch scheme encouraging residents to be vigilant and report and crimes or suspicious activity.

Chief Inspector Phil Vickers came up with the idea for the police tractor, which was donated by John Deere while the National Farmers Union helped to supply the paint job.

He said: "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."

NFU regional director Richard Hezlet added: "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."