Criminals make off with 12 vintage tractors, a power washer and a trailer

TWELVE vintage tractors have been stolen from a property in Co. Down, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have said.

The 12 tractors, alongside a power washer and a low loading trailer, were stolen on the Kilynure Road in Carryduff, just outside Belfast.

Ten of the tractors were red Massey Fergusons with grey chassis, and are of ‘great sentimental value’ to the owner, according to a spokesperson for the PSNI.

The other two tractors were an orange Nuffield Universal and a blue Fordson Dexta.

Chief inspector of the Lisburn PSNI Jonathan Wilson said: ‘The theft was reported to us just after 5pm on Thursday 9 August.

‘Officers attended the address and found that entry had been forced to a number of outbuildings,’ Chief Insp. Wilson said.

The theft happened just before the county’s Working Vintage Festival this weekend in Greyabbey, held annually by the County Down Traction Engine Club.

The incident is believed to have taken place sometime between 10am on Wednesday, August 8 and 4.30pm on Thursday, August 9.

The police are calling for anyone who has been offered the tractors for sale, or seen anything suspicious in the area on Wednesday or Thursday.

Anyone with information can contact detectives in Lisburn on 101, and quote the reference number 940 of 9/8/18, or they can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.