HERITAGE attractions in Dorset are being warned to take precautions amid fears of a rise in crime as cost-of-living soars.

New research commissioned by specialist heritage insurer Ecclesiastical suggests that heritage organisations are a prime target for criminals, as 91 per cent have experienced a crime in the last 12 months.

Ecclesiastical is encouraging Dorset residents who live near local heritage attractions to be vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice.

The survey of 500 heritage workers discovered attractions have suffered trespassing (31 per cent), anti-social behaviour (29 per cent), criminal damage (28 per cent), and theft of contents (27 per cent) during the past year.

An example took place in September 2020, when vandals defaced doors of The Regent Centre in Christchurch with graffiti – an incident which prompted a police appeal for information.

In June this year, metal detectorists were slammed for damaging the grounds and potentially stealing artefacts from the historic 12th century Knowlton Church in Cranborne.

Bournemouth Echo: Knowlton Church. Picture: Michael CoxKnowlton Church. Picture: Michael Cox

With Covid-19 restrictions lifted and against a challenging economic backdrop with soaring prices, Ecclesiastical said there are worries there will be a spike in criminal activity.

Three quarters of heritage organisations surveyed said they are expecting an increase in crime over the next year.

Faith Kitchen, of Ecclesiastical Insurance, said: “Heritage organisations are a prime target for criminals as many house priceless art and antiquities. There are a number of measures heritage organisations can take to better secure property and assets, which would ideally be a combination of both physical and electronic protection.

“Reviewing perimeter security arrangements, ensuring entry points are well lit and secured can often offer a good first line of defence against unwanted visitors, while CCTV can act as a visual deterrent for those not wanting to be caught on camera.

“Vigilance from the local community can be a huge help. We urge those who live near heritage attractions to be vigilant and report any unusual or suspicious activity they notice.”