Allotment chickens are stolen

A THIEF has made off with rare breed chickens from a Whitburn allotment.

The White Star chickens were taken from a plot at Arthur Street allotments.

Thieves removed the padlock from the henhouse and nine chickens were stolen.

The White Star breed can lay up to 320 eggs a year and can cost from £ 10 to £ 20 each.

The incident happened on June 6, between 9pm and 12.30am, although police have just now released details.

Larry Robertson has had a plot at the allotments for 50 years and said there have been minor break- ins over the years.

“It’s not a regular thing but there have been a couple of incidents.”

Mr Robertson, of Whitburn, said that the quality of the chickens was probably the reason they were taken.

He said: “The man had bought expensive chickens, they were a special breed.”

Arthur Street resident Carol Williams said although she had not heard about the breakin it was concerning to think that thieves were operating in the area.

The retired 70- year- old said: “I’ve lived round here for nearly 40 years and it does make you feel a bit worried.

“I have heard of other breakins in the allotments though, I hope it isn’t a regular thing.”

Police are investigating the thefts.