Rustlers nab 50 sheep from Devon farm

Livestock rustlers are being hunted by police after 50 sheep were stolen from a farm in Devon.

Devon and Cornwall Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Sourton area of west Devon, near Okehampton, on or before Saturday 29 April.

Officers are advising farmers to check their livestock and their tags.

See also: 100 sheep stolen from Yorkshire moor

David George, spokesman for NFU South West, said: “Sadly, this kind of livestock theft is all too common, especially at this time of year.

“We feel for the farmer involved, not only over the financial loss, but also the emotional attachment to the sheep.

“Hopefully they will be found soon and returned to their rightful owner.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101@dc.police.uk or by calling 101 quoting CR/033035/17.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or reporting online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org