This summer's seen a big increase in thefts of garden furniture, ornaments and tools in Devon.
Police have been issuing warnings as they receive repeated reports of valuables going missing from outside people's homes.
It comes as better security on farms has led to a decrease in thefts of machinery and vehicles - and thieves are looking for easier targets.
Insurers NFU Mutual, who keep records of rural crime, are now advising extra security measures for gardens and sheds, including good doors and locks, and protective mesh over windows.
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