Dorset Police are urging owners of quad bikes to be vigilant after three were stolen in west Dorset over the last few weeks, writes Lottie Welch.

Two were stolen from secured buildings and police were able to recover another after the thieves ran off.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: "There has been a rise in quad bike thefts across north and east Dorset in recent months. Whilst there has not been many in the west of Dorset, there have been three over the last few weeks.

"One was stolen from a secure container in the Charmouth area a few weeks ago.

"In the early hours of Tuesday, February 11, a quad bike and power tools were stolen from a secure barn on the outskirts of Beaminster.

"Last night (February 12) there was a theft of a quad from a barn in the Shipton Gorge area. Offenders were disturbed and police called and a Ford Transit pick up was seen on the coast road towards Weymouth. Three males decamped and ran off, but police were able to recover the vehicle and quad.

"Please review your security and contact your local police team if you would like any advice.

"Also be vigilant and report any suspicious activity at the time on 101 or via dorset.police.uk."