Baa-d news for farmer

Almost 80 of his sheep are stolen

A farmer is counting the cost after sheep rustlers stole nearly 80 of his prized animals from a remote field.

Police have appealed for information after 76 sheep were taken from Linthills Farm in Lochwinnoch.

The incident, which happened between April 4 and April 5, but was only reported to police this week, is thought have left the farmer £6,000 out of pocket.

It is understood he counted the animals in the evening, but discovered them missing early the next morning.

Police believe the theft would have taken some planning and logistical support, given the number of animals involves.

A number of vehicles may have been required to carry out the theft, and officers have asked members of the public to get in touch with information.

Sergeant Alan Mack, who is based in Johnstone, said: “We have received a report that 76 sheep from Linthills Farm in Lochwinnoch have been stolen. The incident happened overnight between April 4 and April 5.

“The farmer secured his sheep in a remote field for the evening, however, when he returned the next morning,they were all missing.

“The sheep are worth thousands of pounds and their loss will affect the farmer and his business. We are therefore appealing to any one who may have information to get in touch.

“Given the number of animals involved a large vehicle, or perhaps several vehicles, may have been used to remove the animals from the area. If you saw a vehicle in the area at around the time that you perhaps didn’t recognise, I would urge you to get in touch.”

Sergeant Mack also called on other farmers to be aware of the threat of sheep rustlers operating in the area.

“I would also ask that other farmers and people who frequent the countryside to be aware of this threat and report any suspicious activity to the police,” he added.

If you have any information, you should contact police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The sheep are worth thousands of pounds and their loss will affect the farmer and his business Sgt Alan Mack