Derbyshire Police unveil tractor with top speeds of 25mph and blue flashing lights in bid to weed out country crime – but force is accused of wasting time and resources on a ‘PR stunt’ [Video]

Derbyshire Police has unveiled its latest weapon against tackling rural crime — a tractor complete with flashing blue lights that can reach speeds of 25mph. 

The force is using the farmyard machinery, which also features blue and yellow livery, as part of their initiative against countryside crime.

It is hoped the ‘police tractor’ will help deter criminals by using it as an ‘engagement tool’ at local shows and events.

But not everyone is so keen, as some members of the public have accused the force of wasting time and resources on a ‘PR stunt’. 

Sergeant Chris Wilkinson said: ‘Whilst the tractor won’t be ploughing through streets on a police chase, or transporting people to ‘cow-study’, it’s already been a huge hit for the summer shows.

‘This gives us the opportunity to talk to members of the farming and countryside community about how to protect their properties and how we can help.