OWNERS of Land Rover Defenders in the North-East and Yorkshire have been warned they could be the target of thieves.

The NFU Mutual issued the alert after it experienced a 69 per cent rise to £760,000 in claims from North East owners between 2014-15.

Across the UK, Land Rover Defender theft claims cost the insurer £1.8 million in 2015, an eight per cent increase on 2014.

Clive Harris, agricultural vehicle specialist at NFU Mutual, said: "The Defender is no longer in production which has prompted a greater demand, making them a bigger target for thieves.

"I urge owners to be vigilant and on their guard. Owners should ensure they have adequate security measures in place and consider fitting an after-market approved immobiliser and a tracking device if possible."

The appeal comes weeks after?police highlighted how one gang had tried to steal a Defender in Bainbridge in Wensleydale and was chased for more than 40 miles before being stopped near Knaresborough and that a long wheelbase Defender had been stolen from Hetton, also in the Dales.

Cleveland Police said its cars became stuck in mud while trying to follow a stolen Land Rover off-road in Stockton, while Durham Constabulary said a green model was stolen from outside the Piercebridge Organic Farm Shop & Café and a black Defender was taken from Startforth, near Barnard Castle.

PC?Garry Dunn said: "I urge owners of Defenders in Teesdale to consider fitting extra security – mechanical devices such as steering and pedal locks, have alarms and immobilisers activated and tracking devices installed.

"Owners of Defenders looking for spare parts should also seriously consider where they buy them from. Paying a pittance for commonly stolen parts such as doors and bonnets should set your alarm bells ringing."

A recent auction saw three rare Land Rovers, including one of the last Defenders – a 2016 110 Heritage Edition – fetch nearly £140,000.

Mr Harris, from NFU Mutual, said that when not in use Defenders should be parked in a garage or well lit secure area. Keys should not be left in the ignition and should be kept out of sight at home or when out.

Other tips include forensic marking vehicle parts; having the vehicle identification number etched on windows; fitting a hidden battery isolation or fuel cut-off switch; photographing unusual features, modifications, damage or repairs to aid identification if stolen; removing valuables from the vehicle, including satnavs.

The £760,000 worth of claims from Defender owners in the North-East was three times the next highest figure of £235,000 in the Midlands and £191,000 in the South East.