Recent reports of suspicious drone activity have emerged from Aberdeenshire residents in the Monymusk area.

Police Scotland said they had been informed about a drone being deliberately flown over farm buildings and residential properties in Monymusk. There have been three such reports in recent days.

Mike Urquhart, the local rural crime officer, described the incidents: “On each occasion, a drone was seen flying around farm buildings and rural residential properties. A short time later, two men entered the farms and offered to tar driveways.

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“Our advice is to report all such suspicious activity to police on 101 and, where possible, note descriptions of vehicles and those involved.

“Always keep buildings locked and valuable property such as quad bikes and power tools out of sight and locked away. Never accept offers of work from those cold calling. Seek out reputable trades people and get a number of quotes before agreeing to any work.”

For further advice, residents can speak to their local crime officer or visit www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/