Police appeal after 19 in-lamb ewes stolen in Worcestershire

West Mercia Police have appealed for witnesses after 19 in-lamb ewes were stolen from a farm in north Worcestershire, close to junction 4 of the M5 at Lydiate Ash.

The theft occurred at Chadwick Manor Farm, Lydiate Ash, between around 6pm on Monday (31 March) and 9am on Tuesday (1 April).

See also: 63 stolen sheep recovered after police appeal

Livestock thefts are reported to have cost the industry around £2.7m in 2023, according to NFU Mutual figures. Total crime costs are estimated to be up by 4.3% on the previous year, leaving the industry with a £52.8m bill.

Appealing for information, Sarah Sceats, rural and business officer for north Worcestershire, said: “It would have taken a larger vehicle, possibly with a trailer, to take them, so we are appealing for anyone who may have seen anything or possibly has dashcam or CCTV footage to call 101 quoting reference number 328i of April 2.”

She added that the farmers are understandably distressed by the damage to their livelihood and are concerned about the welfare of the sheep which were in lamb when they were stolen.

“Rearing livestock takes months of meticulous planning, care and effort, making such thefts devastating for farmers,” said Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual rural affairs specialist.

“Not only does it disrupt breeding programmes and adds pressures on to sourcing and purchasing replacement livestock, but it can cause a huge amount of upset and worry to farmers and their families about the welfare and treatment of stolen farm animals.” 

She added that to deter thieves, farmers are advised to ensure stock is clearly marked and records are up-to-date; that they vary feeding and looking over stock times; and consider relocating farm animals to fields away from roads or housing indoors wherever possible.

Additionally, any suspicious activity should be reported to the police.

Anyone with information is asked to call West Mercia Police on 101, or alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.