Cumbria police officers have once again joined forces in an operation aimed at combating criminal activity in rural areas.

Operation Checkpoint, the largest operation of its kind in the UK, was conducted from Wednesday night into Thursday morning last week (July 12 and 13).

Several police forces in the north collaborated to prevent and address rural acquisitive crime, wildlife offences, and poaching.

As part of the operation, Cumbria police proactively stopped 89 vehicles and conducted routine checks on anything suspicious.

In Brampton, a 23-year-old man from Carlisle was arrested on suspicion of driving a vehicle while being over the drug limit.

He has since been released under investigation.

The operation also involved the search of 23 vehicles and 22 individuals, resulting in the seizure of three vehicles and four fixed penalty notices issued.

Cumbria police said they remain dedicated to targeting travelling rural criminals and urge the public to report any suspicious activity.

Chief inspector Lee Skelton, Cumbria Constabulary’s rural crime lead, emphasised the collaborative effort between neighbouring forces in tackling rural crime.

He said: "By sharing information and taking action, we are actively disrupting criminal activity which in turn makes our rural communities a safer place."

Mike Johnson, Cumbria's deputy police, fire and crime commissioner, stressed the importance of prioritising the fight against rural crime in the predominantly rural county.

He commended the positive outcomes of the operation, including the arrest and fines issued.

Mr Johnson encouraged residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, highlighting that their familiarity with the local area is invaluable in identifying potential threats.

The operation was conducted in line with Operation Lantern, Cumbria Constabulary's dedicated rural crime operation.

Operation Lantern is said by the constabulary to ensure a coordinated response to farm thefts and provide support to affected rural communities.

Residents can report information online through the Cumbria police’s website or by calling the non-emergency number 101.

In emergencies or if witnessing a crime in progress, the public is advised to call 999.

Anonymous reports can be made to the charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.