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Police have asked the public to be respectful towards the farming community during one of the busiest months in the calendar for the sector.

Leicestershire and Rutland Rural Policing Team said members of public should remain patient of the hard work farmers put in during Harvest by respecting potential delays on roads and ensuring they do not place themselves in dangerous situations.

Officers said farms were not 'play areas' to the public and asked people to be understanding towards the nature of the season and the role of farming in feeding the nation. 

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"Combines are out in force with tractors carting grain and bales throughout the great British countryside," a spokesperson for the police added.

"Invariably it means Harvest staff and contractors are out working long hours - weather permitting.

"A couple of words of advice if we may.

"Accept that this is a part of our great British landscape and that people are working in a time critical environment.

"They are not disturbing your peace for fun.

"Please do not take any unnecessary impatient risks overtaking farm traffic when it is not safe to do so.

"Baled fields are not play areas.

"Farms may be left for extended periods of time - please secure any vulnerable property by removing keys, blocking things in and covering vulnerable areas with cameras.

"And for everyone else - enjoy the view.

"This short Harvest window is an incredible spectacle.

"Take some time to give our great British farmers a thumbs up and a wave."

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