£8000 gardening equipment stolen
Police investigate Strathaven Park storage shed break-in
Thousands of pounds worth of equipment was nicked from one of Scotland’s most popular parks.
More than £8000 worth of gardening equipment was stolen from two storage sheds in Strathaven Park last week.
The two garages were raided on December 19 with items including leaf blowers, grass cutters, and other maintenance equipment taken.
Strathaven Park staff discovered the crime the following morning and reported it to police.
And Les Hoggan, from the Friends of Strathaven Park, was gutted at news of the robbery.
“It’s not something you would think would happen in Strathaven,” he said.
“There has been a lot of rural crime across Avondale recently so I suppose this is just the next thing.
“It’s still really disappointing – especially with it being such a wellloved part of the community.”
The park, which earlier this year received an award for being Scotland’s best park, will now look to replace the equipment.
South Lanarkshire Council’s head of facilities and waste and grounds services, Alistair McKinnon, was sad to hear about the raid.
He told the News : “I can confirm that two garages were broken into in Strathaven Park overnight and several items of grounds maintenance equipment were stolen.
“This incident has been reported to the police.
“Should any member of the public have information I would ask that they contact Police Scotland.
“Strathaven Park is a much-loved community asset and has been voted Scotland’s favourite park.
“I am sure its many supporters will be disappointed to hear of it being targeted in this way.”
PC Laura Taylor from East Kilbride police appealed for information from locals.
“Between 5pm on December 19 and 6.15am on December 20 the storage garage at Strathaven Park was broken into and £8,188 of gardening equipment was stolen,” she confirmed.
“Officers have attended the scene of the crime and carried out an examination.
“We would appeal to anyone with information to contact us.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives via 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.